Job title: Senior Press and Cultural Affairs Officer

Mission: Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Canberra, Australia

Job level: 09

Number of hours: 38

Who we are

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is represented in Australia through a network of missions and honorary consuls, including the Embassy in Canberra, where this position is based. As Senior Policy Officer, you will support the NLinAUS network across public diplomacy, media, and communications, advising on strategic outreach and fostering synergy across policy areas. You’ll build strong networks, identify opportunities, and form creative partnerships that advance Dutch interests. The Embassy team in Canberra is open, social, and informal: we value collaboration, initiative, and curiosity. You’ll be part of a group that works hard, supports each other, and enjoys a positive team spirit. Fluency in English and Dutch is essential. The NLinAUS network operates as one team with close coordination across the country.

Specific Features of the Position

The Senior Press and Cultural Affairs Officer contributes to the development and implementation of the Netherlands' international cultural policy. This includes drafting and supporting project plans in the areas of public diplomacy, cultural heritage, and international cultural engagement. Experience in project management is a strong asset.

The officer reports to the Deputy Head of Mission (DHOM) and serves as a key liaison for the Dutch cultural network, institutions, and businesses. The officer ensures information exchange, identifies needs, and implements policy directions from the International Cultural Policy Unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), while also managing relevant financial and administrative processes.

In consultation with the DHOM, the officer advises on communication strategies, coordinates with subject-matter experts, and proposes improvements in outreach. Where delegated, they are empowered to decide on communication channels and translate the broader policy framework into actionable plans for the NLinAUS network. The officer is expected to travel and at times have flexible working hours.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Implement the Netherlands’ cultural and cultural heritage policy in Australia, in line with the International Cultural Policy 2025–2028 and accompanying strategic documents (e.g., the multi-annual mission plan). Support public diplomacy and external communications efforts aligned with the broader policy goals of the NLinAUS network.

  • Manage budgets related to public diplomacy, international cultural policy, and shared cultural heritage projects under the supervision of the DHOM. Utilize digital tools and archiving systems as required.

  • Maintain active relations with Dutch and Australian media. Act as the media liaison for events and high-level visits, and support event planning and delivery.

  • Monitor and analyze trends and developments in cultural sectors in both Australia and the Netherlands to identify opportunities for collaboration and visibility.

  • Build and maintain a broad and diverse network in the fields of culture, heritage, academia, and media, facilitating connections between Dutch and Australian stakeholders.

  • Draft briefing notes, talking points, and speeches for management in relevant policy areas.

  • Manage and contribute to social media content and website updates. Support colleagues in the NLinAUS network with creating engaging and strategic digital content.

Expected Results

  • External communication is timely, strategic, and effectively reaches relevant audiences through social media and other platforms.

  • The NLinAUS team benefits from technical expertise and creative input on public communication initiatives.

  • Public diplomacy and cultural policy budgets are fully and appropriately utilized for impactful projects, in compliance with applicable criteria and regulations. The officer also acts as the point of contact for the MFA Communications Department.

  • Queries from stakeholders in both the Netherlands and Australia are answered accurately and promptly.

  • Press relations around visits and events are handled effectively, ensuring the appropriate visibility and alignment with stakeholder expectations.

  • The officer establishes and maintains an extensive, effective network across Australia and the Netherlands and remains informed of key policy and regulatory developments.

  • Cultural activities and events are well-executed in close coordination with relevant colleagues.

Job Requirements

  • A creative, service-minded, and proactive team player with a talent for translating Dutch policy into effective communication strategies.

  • Excellent communicator, both written and verbal. Familiarity with Dutch history, society, and culture-and/or proficiency in Dutch-is an advantage but not required.

  • Flexible, quick to learn, and capable of mastering relevant procedures and policy areas. Works with integrity, particularly in funding-related tasks.

Qualifications and Skills

  • A university degree (MA or MSc) in cultural studies, communication, or related fields and a minimum of 5 years experience. Experience in international or governmental contexts is preferred.

  • Proficiency in digital communication tools and social media.

  • Strong affinity with Australian culture and the arts.

  • Professional fluency in English is required. Dutch language skills are an advantage but not a prerequisite.

 

Key Stakeholder Engagement

  • Public: Addressing information needs and inquiries.

  • Dutch stakeholders: Including the MFA's International Cultural Engagement (ICE) unit, to stay informed and support partnerships.

  • Australian stakeholders: Identifying and cultivating partnerships and promoting Dutch initiatives.

  • Colleagues: Supporting them with updates on regulations, procedures, and communication activities.

What We Offer

  • A full-time position (38 hours/week) in a dynamic international setting.

  • A monthly gross base salary starting from AUD 10.219 (depending on experience)

How to Apply

Please submit:

  1. A motivation letter

  2. Your CV

To: can-pcz@minbuza.nl

For inquiries, you may also use this email address.

Application Deadline: 15 August 2025

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
Applicants must have valid working rights in Australia (Australian Citizenship, Permanent Residency, or a non-temporary working visa).