Strong written communication skills Clear verbal communication and public speaking Media relations and liaison skills Speechwriting and content development Strategic thinking and planning Crisis communication and rapid response Excellent organisational skills Knowledge of government and political processes Social media management Media monitoring and analysis Interpersonal skills and stakeholder engagement Attention to detail Ability to work under pressure and to deadlines Understanding of media...

What is the average salary for a How to Become a Press Secretary in Australia?

The average yearly salary for a Press Secretary in Australia is around $101,000 (source: Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). This figure is based on weekly earnings of $1,949 for public relations professionals. Entry-level roles start from about $70,000. Senior roles in government or corporate settings can reach $140,000 or more.

How to Become a Press Secretary: Australian Career Guide

A Press Secretary is one of the most exciting jobs in communications. You act as the main spokesperson for a government minister, official, or senior executive. You handle media inquiries, write press releases, and speak at press conferences. The role is fast-paced, high-profile, and different every single day.

Your main job is to craft clear messages and get them out to the right people. You write speeches, prepare media briefings, and run press events. Watching the news closely is key so you can spot issues before they grow. Staying across what is happening is part of the daily routine.

Crisis work is one of the most exciting parts of the job. When news breaks, the media calls fast and you need to respond quickly and clearly. You keep messaging steady across all channels and help your employer come through tough moments. Quick thinking and staying calm under pressure are your biggest strengths in this role.

This career is ideal for people who love politics, media, and storytelling. It can lead to senior roles as a communications adviser or director. You are at the centre of how news reaches the public, which is a big responsibility. If you want a career where your words matter, Press Secretary is a great path to aim for.

Steps to Become a Press Secretary

Step 1: Complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Journalism or Public Relations

Enrol in a Bachelor of Communication (Public Relations) or Bachelor of Journalism at an Australian university. This takes three years full-time. You will study media writing, public affairs, media law, and crisis communication. A degree is the standard entry path for government and corporate media roles in Australia.

Step 2: Build Practical Experience Through Internships or Entry-Level Roles

Apply for internships in government, corporate teams, or public relations agencies while you study. You can also seek entry-level roles such as media assistant or communications coordinator. Hands-on work with press releases, media monitoring, and stakeholder liaison is essential. Most Press Secretary roles require at least two to three years of communications experience.

Step 3: Develop Specialist Skills in Media Relations and Crisis Communication

Seek professional development courses in media training, crisis communication, and government media strategy. Communication and Public Relations Australia (CPRA) offers workshops and events for communications professionals. A Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication, offered at several Australian universities, builds specialist skills. This adds weight to your application for senior media and advisory roles.

Step 4: Join a Professional Body and Build Your Network

Become a member of Communication and Public Relations Australia (CPRA). CPRA is the national body for PR and communications professionals in Australia. Membership gives you access to training, events, and a network of industry peers and employers. Building links with journalists, officials, and senior advisers will help you find your next role.

Step 5: Progress From a Communications Officer Role to Press Secretary

Most Press Secretaries start as communications officers, media advisers, or public affairs managers. Work in these roles to build a portfolio of press releases, speeches, and campaign materials. Show that you can handle crisis situations calmly and advise senior leaders clearly. With five or more years of solid experience, you are well placed to apply for Press Secretary positions.

What does a Press Secretary do?

A Press Secretary runs communications for a government minister, official, or executive. Each day involves writing press releases, briefing senior staff before media events, and responding to journalist inquiries. They keep a close eye on news coverage and public sentiment, ready to act fast when a story breaks. They also plan press conferences and media events, and advise leaders on how to handle tricky issues. It is a busy, varied role where your skills are tested every day.

Tasks

A Press Secretary handles all aspects of public communication for a government official or senior executive. From daily media inquiries to major press events, they keep messaging clear and consistent. This is a hands-on role that demands quick thinking, strong writing, and great people skills.

Media Relations: Build lasting relationships with journalists and media outlets for accurate and fair coverage.
Press Releases: Write and send press releases to announce key decisions, events, and updates.
Speech Writing: Craft speeches for officials that are clear, engaging, and on-message.
Media Monitoring: Track news coverage and public reaction to government or organisational activities.
Public Statements: Prepare timely responses to media questions and emerging public issues.
Event Coordination: Plan and run press conferences and media events for officials.
Crisis Communication: Design rapid response plans to manage sensitive or breaking news situations.
Social Media Management: Run official social media accounts to engage audiences and share key messages.
Strategic Advice: Give officials practical guidance on communication risk and media strategy.
Stakeholder Engagement: Work with teams and agencies across government to keep messaging consistent.

Skills for Success

To succeed as a Press Secretary, you need to be a strong communicator first and foremost. Clear and fast writing is essential, as you often need to turn around statements in minutes, not hours. You also need to speak well in public, as you may give media briefings on behalf of your employer. Good listening skills help you stay on top of what the media and public are thinking.

Problem-solving and quick thinking are crucial, especially during a crisis. You need to read a situation fast, decide on the right message, and stay calm while delivering it. Strong people skills help you build solid working bonds with journalists and colleagues. Being organised, proactive, and comfortable with digital tools will set you apart in this career.

Skills & Attributes

Strong written communication skills
Clear verbal communication and public speaking
Media relations and liaison skills
Speechwriting and content development
Strategic thinking and planning
Crisis communication and rapid response
Excellent organisational skills
Knowledge of government and political processes
Social media management
Media monitoring and analysis
Interpersonal skills and stakeholder engagement
Attention to detail
Ability to work under pressure and to deadlines
Understanding of media law and ethics
Adaptability and resilience

How to Become A Press Secretary

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