Media Advisor

PRIMARY DETAIL

• Salary: $114,992 - $124,676 (HEW 7) per annum + 17% superannuation and annual leave loading
• Full-time, 12 month fixed term appointment
• Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

Tell the stories that matter — amplify world-class research and shape how science and engineering connect with the world

Are you a skilled communicator with a passion for translating complex research into compelling stories that capture public attention? Macquarie University's Faculty of Science and Engineering is seeking a Media Advisor to elevate the Faculty's profile through strategic media engagement, powerful storytelling, and meaningful journalist relationships.

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of academia, media, and communications — identifying newsworthy stories, pitching to national and international outlets, and equipping researchers to engage with the media. You'll play a key role in enhancing Macquarie University's visibility and reputation, working closely with world-class academics, researchers, and professional staff to bring their discoveries and expertise to broader audiences.

Embedded within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, you will also work directly with and sit alongside the Media and External Communications team in Group Marketing and Communications (dotted reporting line), ensuring seamless collaboration and alignment with the University's broader communications strategy. From time to time, you will participate in an out-of-hours on-call roster, responding to media enquiries and monitoring the media hotline to ensure timely engagement with breaking stories and urgent requests.

About the Role

Key responsibilities include:

• Proactively identifying and pitching media opportunities that showcase the Faculty's research, academic expertise, and achievements of staff, students, alumni, and the broader Faculty community.
• Collaborating with internal Faculty stakeholders to identify stories and areas of expertise that align with media trends and strategic priorities.
• Building and nurturing relationships with key media outlets and journalists, positioning Macquarie University as a trusted source for expert commentary and newsworthy stories.
• Writing engaging media releases and producing compelling articles and stories for the University's primary news platform, The Lighthouse, tailored to diverse audiences, including national and international media.
• Supporting editorial decision-making to prioritise stories and content based on relevance to key stakeholders and media interest.
• Helping to deliver a comprehensive media training program — equipping researchers and staff to engage with the media effectively.
• Monitoring and evaluating media coverage to track Faculty-related stories and measure the effectiveness of media strategies.
• Assisting with managing media responses during crises or sensitive issues, ensuring timely and accurate communication to protect the University's reputation.
• Participating in an out-of-hours on-call roster, including after-hours monitoring of the media hotline and timely responses to media queries and requests.