Communications Officer (APS6)

About the role

We are looking for an experienced communications professional to lead the delivery of our internal and external communication strategies.

In this role, you will help implement our communications strategy – increasing awareness and engagement and building trust with key stakeholders including the public, tax professionals, government, and media. You will also lead internal communication activities and staff engagement.

We are looking for a storyteller with solid experience in creating digital content (social media, website content, photography and video production), experience using social media platforms and analytic tools, and who can develop and deliver communication material and collateral which supports the key work of the Tax Ombudsman in an informative and engaging way.

Initially the role will be offered non-ongoing for up to 12 months with a possibility of extension. We may create an order of merit from this selection to fill similar roles in future.

Key duties

• Write, edit, and proofread a range of communication materials, including media releases, newsletters, talking points, web content, reports and stakeholder presentations.
• Maintain our website, manage content updates and search engine optimization.
• Manage our social media channels, develop content and maintain content calendars.
• Lead internal communications activities including developing content for newsletters and Sharepoint, planning and delivering staff events and activities.
• Develop and design digital content and collateral and support the production of publications and reports.
• Support media and public relations activities and brand management.
• Provide communications and media support for stakeholder engagement activities and events.
• Research, track and evaluate communication and media activities, and contribute to the continuous improvement of processes, capabilities, and tools.

Why you’ll love working with us:

Meaningful work: At the Tax Ombudsman, you will have the chance to contribute to improving the fairness and transparency of Australia’s tax system while supporting the rights of all taxpayers across Australia.

Empowerment and innovation: We encourage our employees to take ownership of their roles and drive change, fostering a culture of innovation and progress. This is a fairly new role, and you will be encouraged to help shape it to maximise the impact of your work

Work-life balance: We offer hybrid working arrangements with flexible hours to ensure a balanced career and personal life. Approximately 30% of our workforce currently works remotely, supporting a flexible and inclusive work environment.

Career growth: This role offers a unique opportunity to manage communications for a whole agency, not just a specific portfolio. As part of a small, impactful team, you’ll build valuable skills for your future in the Australian Public Service (APS).

Hybrid working arrangements: The office location is in Sydney, however, we will consider applicants in Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, Australian Capital Territory and Victoria with a view to remote working after an initial induction at the Sydney office.

Local employees are hybrid, working at least 3 days in the office (Sydney CBD location, close to public transport). For remote employees, quarterly annual attendance at the Sydney office is required after induction, with more frequent attendance or other inter-State travel on request. Where travel is required, expenses will be covered in line with APS travel policies.

Skills, eligibility and experience

Skills and experience

To succeed in this role you will need:

• at least 5 years’ experience in communications, media, or public relations.
• a tertiary qualification in marketing, media or communications and/or relevant experience in a similar role in either the Government or private sector.
• experience in creating social media and digital content as well as an understanding of search engine marketing and social media
• strong communication skills – exceptional writing and editing skills with strong attention to detail, capable of tailoring content to different audiences.
• experience in internal communications including planning and delivering staff events.
• web management experience (Word Press or similar).
• digital and graphic design skills – confident in InDesign or similar.
• photography/videography skills – experience in shooting/editing content is highly desirable.
• strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• to be self-motivated with a positive attitude – we’re looking for someone outgoing, who enjoys working with people, takes initiative, has sound judgement and can work both independently and collaboratively within a small team.

Eligibility requirements

• Undergo pre-employment checks.
• Subject to a probation period of 6 months.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a national police check.
• Australian Citizenship is a condition of eligibility.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a baseline security clearance.

How to apply

To apply, please submit:

• your resume (maximum 4 pages)
• a 700-word (max) pitch detailing your suitability for the role against the skills and experience listed above.

Send your application by email to [email protected].

Applications close on Tuesday, 27 January 2026. Ensure you reference the job position number (CO-1-2026) when submitting your application.

For any further inquiries, please contact:

Paul Wild, Communications Executive 
e: [email protected] 
t: (02) 8239 2190

The Tax Ombudsman acknowledges the value of a diverse workforce and the wealth of perspectives, experiences, and ideas it brings. A culture of inclusion strengthens collaboration, drives innovation, and enhances decision-making, allowing us to better serve the diverse communities we represent. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including but not limited to, individuals from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, people with disabilities, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities. We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments to support applicants through the recruitment process where necessary.