Place Activation and Events Officer

Job No: COS154
Location: Colac

We are seeking an exceptional individual to join our Economy and Creatives Industries team as Place Activation and Events Officer in a Permanent Full-Time capacity.

Located within two hours south-west of Melbourne, Colac Otway is renowned for its magnificent southern coastline, the Otway rainforests and the northern lakes and offers an attractive lifestyle with diverse employment opportunities. Backed by a thriving economy in primary industries, tourism, commercial and community services this is an exceptional career opportunity.

This position is based in Colac.

As the Place Activation and Events Officer you will:

  • Support the approval of community and commercial events that comply with the Events Policy and any other relevant legislation.
  • Actively engage with event organisers to facilitate the successful planning and delivery of events in the Colac Otway Shire, ensuring alignment with Council’s strategic goals for the Visitor Economy and Place Activation. Consults with event organisers, community groups and Council officers regarding events.
  • Effectively coordinate Council events.
  • Champion the Shire as a destination for diverse and high-quality events that enhance community life and attract visitors.

Key responsibilities include: 

  • Facilitate the end-to-end event approval process, ensuring compliance with Council policies and timely coordination with internal departments.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with community groups, commercial operators, and regional partners to attract and support strategically aligned events.
  • Collaborate with event organisers to develop a diverse year-round events calendar, with a focus on attracting events during the low season to support Visitor Economy.
  • Ensure event planning supports community safety, accessibility, sustainability, and strategic priorities.
  • Support the management and delivery of Economy and Creative Industries Department projects.
  • Engage with stakeholders, including community groups and external partners, to support collaborative project outcomes.
  • Act as a responsive and knowledgeable point of contact for community members and event organisers.
  • Establish and manage a stakeholder database for regular communication, updates, and engagement regarding upcoming events, opportunities, and Council initiatives.
  • Manage the events section budget within the Economy and Creative Industries department.
  • Support event organisers in accessing available funding streams and provide guidance on budget planning and financial compliance.

About You:

To support your success in this role you will have:

  • Tertiary qualifications in Events Management, Project Management, Marketing, Communications, Business Management, Project Management or related discipline, or extensive relevant industry experience in lieu of formal qualification.
  • Demonstrated experience project management and/or event management, preferably within local government, tourism, or community sectors.
  • Proven ability to plan, manage, and deliver events, including stakeholder engagement, logistics coordination, and evaluation.
  • Strong organisational and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
  • Highly developed communication and interpersonal skills including written, verbal and presentation capabilities.
  • Experience with digital platforms, including website content management, social media, and online event promotion.
  • Working knowledge of project management principles and tools, including budgeting, scheduling, and reporting.
  • Current Victorian Drivers Licence.

For further information regarding the duties and requirements of the role, please refer to the position description.

Salary information: $86,793.20 to $93,614.04 per annum plus superannuation

For further information and to apply:

    1. Download and review the Position Description including the Key Selection Criteria.
    2. Information to be included with your application:
      • Letter of application 
      • Current resume
      • Key Selection Criteria Responses
    3. Submit your application

If you have any questions relating to the position, please feel to contact Heidi Taylor, Manager Economy and Creative Industries on 03 5232 9400 for a confidential conversation. 

Andrew Tenni

Interim Chief Executive Officer

Colac Otway Shire Council is a child safe organisation and is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

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About Colac

Colac Otway Shire is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque municipalities in Victoria. It comprises spectacular coastal areas, rain-forested hinterlands and beautiful vast open plains with native grasslands and wildflowers.

From the Great Ocean Road towns of Apollo Bay and Lavers Hill, to the beacon of the Cape Otway Lighthouse, the cascading waterfalls, nature trails and native wildlife, the lush tree ferns of the rainforests and tall timber of the Otway forest, Colac Otway has it all. Country living without compromise.

Colac Otway Shire Council is an amazing place to work. If you are passionate about delivering great customer service, working for a progressive and innovative council, and making a difference to your local community, browse the current vacancies below.