Local Government Communications Specialist

Fully insured, council-ready communications capacity with minimal onboarding.

With more than 10 years of experience working across urban, suburban and regional councils, I provide practical, cost-effective support that integrates seamlessly with existing teams, systems and governance frameworks.

Services

I support councils across:

  • Communication planning for projects, programs and advocacy

  • Community-facing content including web copy, social media, letters and email communications

  • Strategic document development including annual reports, council plans and major project reporting

  • Engagement communications including briefs, discussion papers and deliberative process documentation

  • Translation of technical information into clear, accessible community content

  • Content review, proofreading and strategic editing

Council-ready capability

I am equipped to step in quickly and work within existing council frameworks from day one.

Systems and platform experience

  • TRIM Records Management

  • PROmap and Interplan

  • Mailchimp and Campaign Monitor

  • Microsoft Office and Microsoft Teams

  • Common council CMS platforms

Recent council training and inductions completed

  • Council corporate induction

  • Governance and fraud awareness

  • Privacy and data protection

  • Cultural awareness and inclusion training

  • Child Safe standards

These recent inductions and mandatory training modules allow me to integrate quickly without requiring extended onboarding.

Company governance and insurance

  • Public liability insurance

  • Professional indemnity insurance

  • Information privacy policy

  • Data security policy

  • Occupational health and safety policy

  • Risk management and equal opportunity policies

This ensures councils can engage my services with confidence, knowing appropriate insurances, governance frameworks and compliance measures are in place.

Why councils work with me

  • Proven experience - I’ve delivered communication and engagement projects for a range of local governments, including City of Melbourne, Manningham Council, Bayside Council, Darebin Council and Cardinia Shire Council.

  • Understanding of council processes - I’m familiar with governance, approvals and consultation requirements.

  • Plain-English approach - I write with clarity, empathy and precision so residents can easily understand your message.

  • Flexible support - I offer project-based or ongoing services depending on your team’s capacity.

  • Best value for ratepayers - My services are cost-effective and outcome-driven, helping councils achieve more within existing budgets.

Get in touch

Reach out to me at karly@karlyhocking.com to discuss your needs.