Business Communications and Engagement Officer
Posted: 05/03/2026
Closing Date: 22/03/2026
Job Type: Permanent - Part Time
Location: Head Office - Civic Building, Torquay
Job Category: Community Services & Development,Hospitality & Tourism,Marketing,Other
* Permanent Part Time
* $85,853 – $97,076 pa/pro rata (plus 12% super and annual pay increases)
* Flexible working arrangements available including flexitime and WFH
Who we are
Surf Coast has a long history of creativity and innovation. This has often been associated with the surf industry and continues with new industries, new events and next generation entrepreneurs.
The Regional Australia Institute has ranked Surf Coast Shire among Australia’s top 10 connected lifestyle regions for innovation, and a Queensland University of Technology study ranked it among regional Australia’s top five creative industry hotspots.
The shire spans the Traditional Lands of the Wadawurrung People and the Gulidjan and Gadabanud Peoples of the Eastern Maar Nation.
We work together, we see opportunity, we do what we say, and we make a difference.
Job Description
Your new career
Join the Economic Development, Arts, Tourism & Events (EDAT) team at Surf Coast Shire Council — a collaborative and innovative team that connects local businesses and industry with information, opportunities and support to help them thrive.
As the Business Communications & Engagement Officer, you will shape how the department communicates with businesses and the community. You’ll plan and deliver digital campaigns, create engaging content across social and communication channels, and support business engagement initiatives. Your work will help raise the profile of Council programs and strengthen relationships across the local economy. This role offers the opportunity to make a visible, positive impact while working closely with a passionate and supportive team.
What you will bring to the role
You are a creative and proactive communicator who enjoys working collaboratively and helping businesses and communities connect and grow.
To thrive in this role you will have:
* Experience delivering coordinated digital communications, social media and campaigns that promote programs, projects and events
* The ability to engage local businesses and industry through clear, timely and purposeful content
* Confidence providing advice on digital strategy, performance metrics and continuous improvement
* A collaborative, solutions-focused approach that supports effective engagement across teams.
Key selection criteria
Mandatory qualifications, experience and requirements
* Tertiary qualifications in Marketing, Communications, Community Engagement (qualification check conducted) or a related discipline, supported by at least two years’ experience in a digital communication or engagement role
* Demonstrated experience planning, creating and managing social media content, including paid campaigns and analytics across platforms such as Meta (Facebook/Instagram)
* Proficiency in desktop publishing and graphic design tools (e.g. Canva, Adobe Creative Suite), with the ability to produce clear, accessible and brand-aligned visual content
* Strong written and verbal communication skills, with proven ability to create timely, accurate and engaging content for business and community audiences across digital channels
* Understanding of the role of local government, and experience working with or within Council or other community-facing organisations, ideally in business or economic development contexts
Other Relevant Information
For this vacancy, preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent to a National Police Check (including potential international criminal history check), Qualification Check. Candidates must hold a current and valid Victorian Drivers Licence, a current WWCC and have the Right to Live and Work in Australia.
What you’ll love working with us
Council embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourages applications from skilled people from all walks of life.
We recognise that our employees play a vital role in creating an innovative, safe, respectful and supportive workplace, living our values and delivering exceptional services to our thriving community. Council is committed to providing a workplace culture of equity, inclusion and diversity that eliminates all forms of discrimination, harassment and bullying.
There are numerous social activities throughout the year available as well as the benefits of:
* Flexible working arrangements including working from home and flexi time options
* Employee Assistance Program and award-winning staff wellbeing program
* Career development and learning opportunities, we help our people grow
* Purchase of additional annual leave
* Free onsite parking
* Leave loading.
For more information
You’ll find further details about the role, including accountabilities and key selection criteria, in the Position Description on our website – [Position Description PDF ]
Contact Simon Loone, Coordinator Economic Development on 5261 0600
How to apply
Applications are to be in Word or PDF format and should include a:
* cover letter including your statement addressing the selection criteria
* copy of your resume.
Please note that only applications with a statement addressing the selection criteria will be considered for this position.
Simply complete the application process by clicking the "Apply Now" button and we'll be in touch with you shortly regarding your application.
Applications close at 11.59pm Sunday 22 March 2026.
Surf Coast Shire Council is an equal opportunity and child safe employer.
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