Head of Communications

City of Sydney; Sydney; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Care and cultural leave

Flexible working

City centre head office

Leadership development program

Course fee reimbursement

Study leave

Attendance at external courses

Long service awards

Employee assistance program

Job summary

City of Sydney is seeking a dynamic communications professional for a Full Time/Term Contract up to 6 months. The role focuses on crafting messaging, coordinating with media and councils, and delivering timely, accurate communications to diverse audiences in Sydney’s vibrant urban environment.

The successful candidate will bring strong writing and editing skills, knowledge of local media, and the ability to work quickly, meet tight deadlines and collaborate across teams in a fast-paced city

Job description

Full Time/Term Contract for up to 6 months

Caring for our city, creating a future for all

Our people are passionate about their communities and connected to their teams. They’re motivated by our genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion, and our clear, compelling plan for our global city:Sustainable Sydney 2030 – 2050 Continuing the Vision.

Be part of a purpose-led organisation with care at its core. You’ll make a difference by acting in the best interests of our communities and city. Be better together with collaborative and inclusive partnerships. Embrace possibilities and be open to new ideas and creating bold solutions.

About the role

This is a unique opportunity to work for one of Australia’s most progressive elected representatives, part of a city government with a record of delivering for its communities.

Sydney is the global city of Australia and the commercial, financial and cultural hub of NSW. The City of Sydney is the local government authority responsible for the CBD and more than 30 surrounding suburbs. Under the Lord Mayor’s leadership, the City has developed a global reputation for delivering award-winning facilities, protecting open space, promoting design excellence, delivering new transport options, championing sustainability and initiating progressive solutions to complex city social problems.

This is a fast-paced role requiring energy, quick thinking, multi-tasking and mature judgment. An understanding of media at all levels, including social media, will be vital, along with a record of success in a similarly demanding position. You will need outstanding writing and editing skills, with an eye for great visual design and attention to detail, someone who understands the Sydney media, works fast, meets deadlines and shares values; a collaborative team player who understands the nature and community needs of Sydney.

The position will suit someone who has a record of achievement in a comparable local government, ministerial or departmental communications role, having ideally sharpened their writing skills through experience in print or on-line media.

This role has the option of a rostered day off each month, known as a 19-day month.

The recommended applicant must complete a pre-employment health declaration and criminal history check.

Applications must be submitted online by 11:59pm, Friday 06 November 2026.

For more information, contact Adam Cox, Chief of Staff, at ****@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

What we can offer you

You’ll work with passionate, welcoming and supportive people who care for our communities and create a future for all.

3 days of care and cultural leave each year for health and wellbeing activities, cultural and religious days or events of significance

Collaborative approach to flexible working

City centre head office, with many public transport options.

Leadership and management development program

Further education program providing reimbursement of course fees, and study and exam leave

Opportunity to attend external courses and conferences

Long service and employee recognition awards

Employee assistance program offering free, confidential counselling

Supporting families

We provide 26 weeks of paid parental leave for all new parents, supporting diverse and inclusive families

Paid and unpaid adoption and long-term fostering leave

Paid superannuation for up to 52 weeks of parental leave

Part-time and job-sharing options available

Supportive return-to-work environment

Inclusive culture

Recognised as an Inclusive Employer by the Diversity Council of Australia

Active employee networks including City Women, City Pride, DiverseCity, Inclusive City, Young Professionals and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander network

Recognised family inclusive workplace

Find out why a career at the City of Sydney might be right for you.