A living library for now, for the future, for all of us

Media & Communications Specialist

State Library of New South Wales

Experience & Engagement | Media & Communications

Clerk Grade 7/8 | Temporary 12-month opportunity with the possibility of ongoing

- Bring the Library's collections, programs and impact to life through compelling communications and media engagement.
- Competitive remuneration package up to $146,779 p.a. (package includes salary between $116,981 - $129,492 p.a., plus employer’s contribution to superannuation and annual leave loading)

About the State Library The State Library of New South Wales is one of Australia's oldest and most important public institutions. The Library preserves and presents the history of our State and our Nation for the benefit of all, offering essential services, extraordinary collections and magical experiences. Its rich collections, both physical and digital, alongside partnerships with the public library network across NSW and other vibrant collaborations enable Australians to examine their past and imagine their future.

About the Role

We're seeking a skilled and proactive Media & Communications Specialist to help tell the stories of the State Library of NSW and connect our diverse audiences with the Library's collections, exhibitions, programs and services.

Working closely with stakeholders across the organisation and external partners, you will write compelling content, identify media opportunities, coordinate communications activities, and contribute to the Library's reputation as a leading cultural institution.

In this role, you will:

- Develop and implement communications plans and initiatives to promote exhibitions, events, collections and organisational priorities.
- Create engaging content across a range of formats, including media releases, media alerts, editorial content, speeches, presentations, briefs and reports.
- Deliver internal communications that keep staff informed about key projects, achievements and organisational priorities.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with media representatives and stakeholders across the cultural, education, tourism, government and community sectors.
- Manage media enquiries, support filming activities and identify opportunities to enhance the Library's profile.
- Monitor, evaluate and report on communications activities to measure effectiveness and inform future initiatives.
- Contribute expert communications advice and support to managers and stakeholders across the organisation.

About you You are an experienced communications skilled who combines strategic thinking with excellent writing skills and a strong understanding of contemporary media and communications practices.

You thrive in a fast-paced environment, can manage competing priorities with confidence,



and build productive relationships with a broad range of stakeholders. You bring sound judgement, initiative and a commitment to delivering high-quality communications that engage diverse audiences.

To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate:

- Relevant tertiary qualifications in communications, public relations, journalism or a related discipline.
- At least five years' demonstrated experience in a similar communications role, preferably within the cultural, arts industry.
- Experience developing, implementing and evaluating internal and external communications strategies and plans that achieve organisational objectives.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging for different audiences and channels.
- Strong media relations experience and the ability to identify and develop compelling stories.
- Proven ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders and build strong professional relationships.
- Exceptional organisational skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple projects and deliver outcomes within tight deadlines.
- Sound judgement, discretion and professionalism when managing sensitive or complex communications matters.
- A strong understanding of media trends, emerging communications channels and best practice communications approaches.

What we offer The State Library of NSW is a great place to work. We are a purpose-driven organisation, and you would be working with colleagues who are collaborative, knowledgeable, and like-minded. Working at the Library gives you access to a range of benefits including:

- Flexible working arrangements
- A range of wellbeing events, lunchtime groups and initiatives like discounted gym programs, annual flu vaccinations and access to an employee assistance program
- Professional development opportunities including time off for study
- Staff discounts at the Library café and bookshop
- Staff engagement activities

How to apply To apply for this role please provide a response to the following questions. Attach your answers as part of your application and/or as part of your cover letter. Please keep question responses to a maximum of 3 paragraphs and please respond to the shortlisting questions in your own words - we’re looking to understand your perspective, not answers generated by AI tools. Please ensure you attach an up-to-date copy of your CV as part of your application for the role.





- Provide an example of a media campaign you have led that generated strong media and public interest. What did you do to make it a success?
- Provide an example of a time you have successfully secured editorial coverage for a story in an online publication that typically charges for inclusions. What approach did you take to achieve this?

The State Library of NSW welcomes and encourages applications from people with diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, LGBTQI+, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans and workers of all ages. We provide adjustments to the recruitment process for candidates including individuals with disability. If you require an adjustment to be made during the recruitment process (including alternate formats) or have an enquiry about the support provided, please contact the People and Culture Team on [email protected] or 9273 1794.

Talent Pool

Applicants not initially offered a role but have been assessed through the recruitment process as being suitable will be placed in the Talent Pool to fill future ongoing and temporary vacancies as they arise. Placement in the Talent Pool remains valid for 18 months.

Eligibility to apply To be eligible to apply for this role you must be either;

- an Australian citizen or
- a permanent resident of Australia, or
- a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand passport or a citizen of another country with an appropriate visa that allows you to work in Australia for the period of temporary employment or if you are seeking ongoing employment, you must hold a permanent visa that allows you to work in Australia.

Appointment to this role is subject to Pre-employment Checks. Additional checks may be required throughout your tenure at the Library should the accountabilities of your role change. Further information that may assist you with applying for this role

Role Description (pdf)

Role Description (word) ing for a role in the NSW Public Service

NSW Public Sector Capability Framework

State Library Accessibility Guide The Guide for applying for roles at the State Library of NSW will assist you in completing your application and provide you with an understanding of the selection process.

If you have any questions about the role, please contact Rani Haywood on [email protected] or (02) 9273 1410.

Closing date for applications: Tuesday 28th September 2026 at 10:00am.

Application contact details

If you have questions or would like to learn more about this role, please reach out to the contact below:

Contact

Rani Haywood - +61 2 9273 1566

Contact email [email protected]

Application close date

29 September 2026 at 10:00am

📌 Media & Communications Specialist (Sydney)
🏢 Nsw Government
📍 Sydney