Thomas Emerson MLA, Independent Member for Kurrajong in the ACT Legislative Assembly

Location:​​ ACT Legislative Assembly, Canberra

Independent Member for Kurrajong, Thomas Emerson MLA, is seeking a motivated and progressively minded communications and policy adviser to join his team.

Expertise in strategic communications and media relations is a must, with experience in a parliamentary or policy environment a big plus.

Why work with us? 

Politics across the country is being transformed by independent representatives who are holding their governments to account on matters of transparency, integrity and accountability. 

In 2024, Canberrans brought this transformative change to local politics through the election of independents to the ACT Legislative Assembly for the first time in a quarter of a century. 

Are you passionate about achieving better outcomes for our community? This job may be for you. Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment working in a small, agile team where you can influence parliamentarians to help shape the future of the ACT? This job may be for you. Do you want to see politics done differently with more community involvement and ambitious evidenced-based policies? This job may be for you!

Position available:

Adviser Level 2, full-time, based in Canberra, ACT.

Salary from $113,315 plus super, and an additional 7 per cent allowance to cover a small amount of overtime. Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) at a 1:1 ratio is also available to support a healthy work-life balance.

For more information, see the enterprise agreement here.

Who we’re looking for:

The successful candidate will bring passion, professionalism and a can-do attitude. This role will suit a proactive, highly organised individual capable of managing diverse workloads, and working collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. 

Responsibilities:

• Communications: Foster positive working relationships with media outlets, prepare media releases and comments, draft notes for speeches, develop media and social media campaigns, and manage Thomas’ public communications strategy, ensuring consistent and effective messaging.
• Policy Development and Analysis: Research, analyse, and formulate policy advice on a wide range of issues.
• Stakeholder Management: Establish and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders.
• Legislative Scrutiny: Critically review proposed legislation and provide strategic advice.
• Committee Work: Prepare Thomas for legislative committee meetings and inquiries, researching relevant information, and assisting with question preparation.
• Parliamentary Processes: Maintain a comprehensive understanding of parliamentary procedures and processes to ensure effective participation in parliamentary activities.
• Strategic Management: Assist with the overall management of the office, ensuring the team operates efficiently, effectively and collaboratively in a positive working environment.

Selection criteria:

• Demonstrable experience relevant to the responsibilities as outlined in this advertisement.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong organisational, time management and creative problem-solving abilities.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong political acumen and understanding of the local political landscape.
• Advanced computer literacy and ability to learn new systems quickly, including in Google Workspace, Asana and Outlook.  

The role will also require: 

• The ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• A high degree of discretion and judgement.
• A capacity to work well under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• A firm commitment to professional development and continued learning.

Team culture:

Thomas actively promotes a productive, healthy, inclusive working environment where people are supported to grow personally and professionally, and to be their best selves both inside and outside of the office. 

How to apply:

Click Apply Now to submit your application. 

Learn more here.