Founded in 2001, the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is Australia’s largest human rights organisation providing support to people seeking asylum. We are an independent not-for-profit organisation whose programs support and empower people seeking asylum to maximise their own physical, mental and social well being. We champion the rights of people seeking asylum and mobilise a community of compassion to create lasting social and policy change.

We are a value-driven organisation that strives to be part of a change movement that supports people seeking asylum by providing critical services such as assistance with accommodation, food provisions, casework and legal services.

The ASRC movement is proudly supported by a community of committed volunteers and supporters who embrace the organisation’s vision that people seeking asylum can live safely, sustainably, independently and equally.

About The Role

The Media and Policy Officer is crucial for ASRC's media engagement and visibility, assisting the Senior Policy and Media Lead with both reactive and proactive media efforts. Responsibilities include drafting media releases, social media content, key messages, and communication plans, while also engaging with journalists and responding to media queries. On the policy side, the role will assist with research, data management, policy briefings, and parliamentary reviews.

In collaboration with the Senior Policy and Media Lead, you will help drive change by identifying, influencing, and shaping media narratives to align with ASRC’s priorities and advocacy goals. The role also involves media reporting within the organisation and leading the development of a community of media spokespeople with lived experience of seeking asylum.

About You

The ideal candidate will be passionate about advocacy, community organising, and mobilising people for change. They will be committed to fighting for the rights of refugees and people seeking asylum, ensuring they have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

We’re looking for a dynamic and driven individual to play a key role in amplifying voices, shaping narratives, and driving impact. You’ll bring strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build meaningful connections with diverse communities, as well as the following

• Tertiary qualifications in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism or related discipline or equivalent relevant experience
• Ability to craft compelling media releases, briefing documents, and key messages that are clear, concise, and impactful
• Strong research skills and the ability to present data in a clear and accessible manner
• Effective time management skills, including the ability to meet competing deadlines and be adaptive in a rapidly changing environment
• Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to collaborate effectively and develop positive working relationships with both internal and external stakeholders
• Ability to work autonomously to deliver on agreed priorities and small projects
• A passion for working towards social and systemic change

Lived experience of seeking asylum in Australia is highly desirable. Knowledge of policy and issues impacting on people seeking asylum in Australia as well as previous experience working within a not-for-profit environment, would also be advantageous.

Employee Benefits

Joining the ASRC means being a part of the largest human rights organisation in Australia, supporting refugees and people seeking asylum. We recognise and appreciate our incredible staff for their contribution, dedication and passion to support and empower people seeking asylum by providing the following conditions above the relevant modern award:

• Flexible Working Arrangements, including the ability to work remotely
• Annual Leave Loading of 17.5%
• Additional discretionary leave provisions including:
  • Leave due to Cultural or Religiously Significant Events
  • Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Leave
  • Leave for Staff Seeking Asylum
  • Gender Affirmation Leave
• Free onsite car and bicycle parking
• Salary packaging (up to $15,900 per year tax free)
• Entertainment Packaging (up to $2,650 per year tax free
• Close proximity to public transport (100 metres from Footscray station and buses)

Application Process

Only applications that include a CV and cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria, will be considered.

Shortlisting for this position will commence immediately, and the position may close earlier than stated if we have found suitable candidates.

All offers of employment are subject to a satisfactory Criminal History Check, and provision of a valid Working with Children Check prior to commencement.

A position description is attached.