Job Title

Director Public Affairs (full-time 9-month maternity leave contract from mid-April 2026 to mid-January 2027, with potential for extension) Local Government Association of the Northern Territory (LGANT)Darwin, Northern Territory About LGANTThe Local Government Association of the Northern Territory (LGANT) is the peak body representing local government councils across the NT. LGANT delivers advocacy, policy advice and sector support to member councils. LGANT is a small team that works closely with councils to strengthen the capability, visibility and influence of local government across the Northern Territory. The OpportunityLGANT is seeking a Director Public Affairs to lead its advocacy, policy, communications and member support functions. This is a 9-month full-time maternity leave contract from mid-April 2026 to mid-January 2027, with the potential for extension. The role provides high level strategic advice to the CEO, manages a small team, and ensures LGANTs public affairs activities align with the organisations strategic plan and member priorities. The Director Public Affairs plays a key role in shaping LGANTs policy agenda, coordinating sector engagement, and representing the interests of local government across the Northern Territory. Why Join the LGANT team? Work on issues that directly impact councils and communities across the NT Broad role across advocacy, policy, communications and member services Direct engagement with councils, government and stakeholders Small team environment where you can take ownership and deliver outcomes Key Responsibilities Advocacy, Policy & Strategic Projects Lead the development of policy positions, submissions, and advocacy initiatives aligned with LGANTs strategic plan and annual priorities. Undertake research and analysis to inform evidence based policy development. Ensure compliance with relevant NT and Australian Government legislation, regulations, and policy frameworks. Coordinate project and advocacy staff to deliver high impact outcomes for member councils. Manage and coordinate projects that support and benefit member councils. Provide authoritative advice to the CEO, Board, and member councils on emerging issues affecting local government. Member Engagement & Sector Support Facilitate engagement, consultation, and negotiation with member councils to identify priorities and shape LGANTs policy agenda. Maintain strong, collaborative relationships with elected members, council CEOs, and senior staff. Coordinate sector staff networks. Support the delivery of training, shared services, and capability building initiatives for member councils. Public Affairs & Communications Oversee LGANTs public relations, communications, events, and media engagement. Ensure consistent, professional messaging that strengthens LGANTs reputation and influence. Prepare speeches, briefings, reports, submissions, and discussion papers. Support the CEO and President with communication materials for key forums and stakeholder engagements. Coordinate communications staff to deliver outcomes. Stakeholder Relationships & Partnerships Build and maintain effective relationships with NT and Australian Government agencies, ministerial advisors, ALGA, peak bodies, and other key stakeholders. Represent LGANT at meetings, forums, and events as directed by the CEO. Promote constructive partnerships that strengthen the NT local government sector. About You You are an experienced policy and advocacy professional with strong analytical and communication skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a small team environment. You will bring Advanced analytical, advisory, research, and negotiation skills. Demonstrated experience in policy development at local, state/territory, or national levels. Strong understanding of the political, socio cultural, and economic landscape of the NT. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare high quality reports, submissions, and policy documents. Experience leading or working effectively within a small, high performing team. Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. High level of computer literacy, including Microsoft Office. Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with diverse stakeholders. Ability to travel to regional and remote areas. Australian citizenship or a current visa permitting work in Australia. NT or interstate drivers licence. Experience in the local government sector, preferably within the NT. Understanding of the cultural diversity of the NT. Knowledge of NT local government legislation. Experience in public affairs, communications, or media engagement. Benefits Competitive salary package. Enhanced superannuation: contribute an additional 2.5% and LGANT will contribute an extra 2%. 5 weeks recreation leave. To Apply If you are interested in contributing to the local government sector across the Northern Territory, please submit your resume and a one-page cover letter addressing the selection criteria. For further information, please contact Sarah Zaharie, Director Public Affairs on (08) 8944 9697. Position closes: Sunday 5 April 2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr