External Relations Advisor

• Continuing | Full - Time

• Higher Education Officer Level 7 | $102,589 - $113,561 p.a. + 17% superannuation

• Location: Bedford Park and Flinders City Campus / Kaurna Country

• View Position Description

About the Role

With a focus on building new and managing existing strong relationships with government and industry partners, the External Relations Advisor plays a key role in supporting Flinders’ strategic external engagement objectives. This role is a unique opportunity to be part of a growing team in a dynamic organisation.

You will work closely with the Associate Director, Government and External Relations and senior leaders to support coordinated engagement activities that enhance the University’s reputation, influence and impact. You will also provide high‑quality advice, briefings and correspondence to further the University’s influence and impact.  

Key responsibilities include:

• Establishing and maintaining strong and effective relationships internally and externally, including with government departments, political offices and industry partners.

• Drafting high-quality briefings, correspondence, submissions and advice for senior audiences.

• Supporting the research and development of submissions, position papers, correspondence, policy and guidelines on matters of strategic interest.

• Providing professional guidance and support to colleges and portfolios regarding external relations engagement and events.

• Mitigating and managing sensitive issues by analysing risks, implementing mitigation strategies, and working collaboratively with the Communication team.  

Please refer to the attached position description, for a more comprehensive list of responsibilities.

About You

You have  strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills and can effectively establish and maintain productive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders both internal and external.

You will also be able to demonstrate:

• Excellent working knowledge of political, parliamentary and legislative processes at federal, state and local levels of government.

• Experience preparing high quality briefing papers, reports, policy papers, recommendations and advice for senior audiences.

• Strong communications, analysis and research skills.

• Trusted relationships and networks across government, industry and external stakeholders, which can be drawn upon to support the University’s priorities.

It is expected that the successful candidate will have a degree in a relevant discipline (Public Policy, Communications or similar) and at least 5 years relevant senior experience. Experience in higher education will be highly regarded.

Life at Flinders

We're transforming and investing in people and facilities to create contemporary, stimulating, and satisfying learning and work environments that reflect our core values of excellence, innovation, courage, and integrity. Flinders is refocusing its strategic priorities with the aim of elevating its performance to be a top ten Australian university, and amongst the top 1% in the world.

Reaching beyond the limits of buildings, borders, and backgrounds, ours is an inclusive culture that believes absolutely in equality and opportunity for all. We don't just accommodate differences; we embrace and celebrate them. So, why work at Flinders?

• 17% Superannuation + salary packaging options

• Flexible working arrangements

• Wide range of professional development activities and services, including exclusive staff study offers

• We embrace diversity and promote equity and inclusion for all students and staff

• Vibrant campus life and amenities including on campus health care services, gym and childcare centre (Bedford Park, South Australia).

Our Commitment to Reconciliation and Indigenous Employment

Flinders University is proud to be an organisation that is committed to our Reconciliation Action Plan and Indigenous Workforce Strategy. Our vision is to be a preferred employer for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.  We are committed to progressing Indigenous advancement in education, research, employment, and wellbeing, and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for all Flinders vacancies.

• Please see here for our Reconciliation Action Plan

• Please see here for our Indigenous Workforce Strategy

Prescribed Conditions for Employment

• A current Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check which is satisfactory to the University will be required by Flinders University before the successful applicant can commence in this position. A criminal record will not automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration. Each case will be assessed on its individual merits and relevance to the inherent requirements of the role. 

How to Apply and Information

• You are required to submit your CV and cover letter no more than 2 pages addressing the Key Position Capabilities of the Position Description.

• For more information regarding this position, please contact talentacquisition@flinders.edu.au

Certification

Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check - Australian Police or Accredited Agencies

Applications to be submitted before 10.00pm:

04 May 2026

At Flinders we embrace and celebrate diversity and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities.

Flinders. Fearless.