Communications Officer – Papua New Guinea

• Full-time contract to 30 November 2027 
• Location: Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

A fantastic opportunity to drive strategic communications and stakeholder engagement for one of Australia's leading international agricultural research organisations in Papua New Guinea.

About the role

AVI Pacific People, on behalf of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), is seeking an experienced and dynamic Communications Officer to lead and implement ACIAR's communication and outreach activities in Papua New Guinea. The role is based in Port Moresby and works closely with the Outreach Team in Canberra to enhance awareness of ACIAR's research-for-development programs and impact across the country. 

As part of the ACIAR PNG Country Office, and working closely with the Canberra-based Outreach Team, you will coordinate communications initiatives, develop engaging content across a range of platforms, build strong relationships with stakeholders and media, and promote the outcomes of ACIAR-funded research projects that support agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and rural livelihoods throughout Papua New Guinea. 

This is an exciting opportunity for a communications professional who is passionate about international development, stakeholder engagement, and creating compelling stories that demonstrate real-world impact.

This is a full-time contractor position located in Port Moresby.

About ACIAR

The Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) is an Australian Government agency specialising in agricultural research-for-development. ACIAR brokers and funds research partnerships between Australian scientists and their counterparts in developing countries to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods through collaborative research. 

In Papua New Guinea, ACIAR currently supports multiple research initiatives focused on biosecurity, climate-resilient livelihoods, agribusiness development, fisheries, forestry, crop improvement, and sustainable land management. Through strong partnerships with government agencies, research institutions, universities, civil society organisations and development partners, ACIAR contributes to long-term economic and social development outcomes.

Learn more at: www.aciar.gov.au 

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation and monitoring of ACIAR's PNG communications and stakeholder engagement activities. 
• Develop high-quality communication products including success stories, media releases, presentations, briefs, videos, photography, social media content and promotional materials.
• Increase awareness and understanding of ACIAR's mission, research programs and achievements across Papua New Guinea.
• Support the promotion and dissemination of communication products through local, regional and global communication channels.
• Coordinate media engagement activities, including maintaining media networks and preparing media materials. 
• Organise and support outreach events, stakeholder engagement activities and public-facing initiatives.
• Travel to project locations to gather stories, conduct interviews, and produce multimedia content showcasing project outcomes.
• Work collaboratively with ACIAR staff, research partners, government agencies and Australia's diplomatic network to strengthen ACIAR's visibility and reputation. 
• Provide communications advice and operational support to the PNG Office and Outreach Team. 

About you

You will bring:

• Tertiary qualifications in Journalism, Communications, Public Affairs, Social Sciences, International Relations, or a related discipline. 
• Demonstrated experience in development communications, ideally within agriculture, forestry, environmental management, natural resources, or international development sectors. 
• Strong writing, editing and storytelling skills, with experience developing content across digital, print and multimedia platforms.
• Experience developing and implementing communication strategies and plans. 
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to build strong professional relationships with diverse audiences. 
• Experience with social media, web content management, photography, videography and event coordination. 
• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills. Fluency in a local language will be highly regarded. 
• The ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and contribute positively within a collaborative team environment.

Application Process 

For a position description and to apply for the role, click here

Please submit a cover letter and a current resume by 9am Monday 14 September AEST.

Shortlisted candidates may be required to submit a short skills test after the interview.

AVI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AVI is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, all applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability status.