Mackay Regional Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Strategic Advocacy Coordinator to join the Executive Office.
Supporting the CEO, Councillors and Executive Leadership Team, you will coordinate Council's advocacy activities, develop strategic relationships and help advance priorities that deliver positive outcomes for the Mackay region. This role offers a unique opportunity to work across government, industry and community sectors while contributing to major regional initiatives and funding opportunities.
In this role, you will:
- Lead and coordinate Council's advocacy initiatives and priority projects.
- Prepare executive-level briefing notes, submissions, reports and correspondence.
- Research and analyse policy, legislative and funding opportunities.
- Build and maintain relationships with local, state and federal government representatives, industry bodies and key stakeholders.
- Coordinate strategic responses to government consultations and enquiries.
- Support executive meetings, forums and representation activities.
- Monitor advocacy commitments and outcomes.
- Identify and monitor grant and funding opportunities relevant to Council priorities.
This position may involve occasional after-hours work, travel and weekend commitments associated with representation activities, advocacy events and stakeholder engagement opportunities.
About You
You are a self-starter who is passionate about regional development and understands the factors that influence local communities, government decision-making and economic growth.
To be successful, you will bring:
- Approximately 3-5 years' experience in advocacy, stakeholder engagement, communications, government relations, strategic projects, economic development, policy or a related field.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong stakeholder engagement capabilities and confidence interacting with senior representatives from government, industry and the private sector.
- Highly developed organisational and time management skills.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage competing priorities.
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach.
- The ability to work independently while building strong collaborative relationships.
- A passion for the Mackay region and its future growth opportunities.
Qualifications in Communications, Marketing, Government Relations, Public Policy, Political Science, Law or a related discipline will be highly regarded; however, equivalent experience will also be considered.
Why work for Mackay Regional Council?
- Base annual salary of $136.521 plus locality allowance
- Up to 12% superannuation (conditions apply).
- Choice of 4 or 5 weeks’ annual leave with 17.5% leave loading.
- Flexible work arrangements, including work-from-home opportunities.
- RDO arrangements.
- Learning and development opportunities.
- Employee Assistance Program.
- Employee health and wellbeing initiatives.
- Active Social Clubs.
Why Mackay?
Mackay offers the perfect mix of career opportunity and lifestyle. Enjoy beautiful beaches, rainforest escapes, island adventures and a thriving regional community while building your career with one of Queensland's leading local governments.
Discover more about the Mackay Region https://www.discovermackay.com.au/
Want to know more about this role?
View the Position Description (PD) for this role in the document attachments or for a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Click or tap here to enter hiring manager’s name. on 1300 622 529.
How to apply:
Submit your cover letter and resume outlining your skills, experience and interest in the role.
Applications will be assessed as received, with the preferred candidate ideally available to commence as soon as reasonably possible.
Applications Close:
Thursday, 27 August 2026
Having troubles submitting your application?
Reach out to one of our friendly Talent and Onboarding Team by phoning 1300 MACKAY (1300 622 529).
***Important information for applicants:
To be considered for this position, applicants must have the appropriate Australian working rights. Successful applicants will be required to undergo pre-employment assessments, including medical, drug and alcohol testing and a Criminal History Check. Mackay Regional Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.
