Government and Industry Affairs Manager

Date: 19 Jan 2026

Location: Chadstone, VIC, AU

Company: kmartaustr


Brighter Futures Start Here

We are an inclusive team who power two of the most iconic and loved brands, Kmart and Target. We have more than 50,000 passionate individuals across our stores, distribution centres, and offices around the globe.

With our brands touching the lives of almost two million customers every week, you’ll feel the impact of the work you’ll do every day. As a leader in the retail market, we’re optimistic about our future and yours. We’re changing at a rapid rate, giving you challenging work that you’ll be proud of.


Join the team

Are you ready to lead strategic government and industry engagement for two of Australia’s most iconic retail brands Kmart and Target?

We’re seeking a Government and Industry Affairs Manager to develop and deliver strategies that strengthen our reputation, drive commercial outcomes, and position our business as a trusted partner to government and industry stakeholders.

Reporting to the Head of Corporate Affairs, this highly autonomous role provides close support to the Managing Director and executive leadership team, ensuring alignment on key issues and opportunities.


What you’ll be doing


As a Government and Industry Affairs Manager working for Kmart you will:       

 

  • Lead the development and execution of government and industry communication strategies that support business objectives and brand trust.
  • Build and nurture relationships with government, regulatory authorities, industry associations, and other influential stakeholders.
  • Provide strategic counsel to senior leaders on government and industry engagement, messaging, and relationship-building.
  • Analyse legislative and regulatory developments and develop responses that protect and advance business interests.
  • Collaborate with Wesfarmers corporate team to ensure alignment on government and industry positioning.
  • Partner with internal stakeholders across Legal, Finance, Risk, and Operations to deliver a coordinated approach to government and industry affairs.
  • Lead and develop the government and industry communications team, building capability and fostering high performance.
  • Support the Corporate Affairs function in navigating evolving stakeholder expectations and managing issues and crises effectively.

 

To be successful in this role you’ll have:

  • Bachelor’s degree in PR, Journalism, Media, Communications, or Commerce.
  • 10+ years’ experience in government relations, communications, media, or PR (in-house or consulting).
  • Proven experience in developing and implementing strategic communications plans for large organisations.
  • Strong commercial acumen and understanding of complex industry issues.
  • Exceptional stakeholder management skills with experience engaging senior internal and external stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated ability to advise executive leadership on government relations and corporate positioning.
  • Experience leading, coaching, and developing high-performing teams.
  • In-depth knowledge of public affairs, regulatory environments, and issues management processes.

 

Apply now and help us shape the future of government and industry engagement for Kmart Group.

 

Benefits we’ll offer you:

 

  • Flexible hybrid working options through our Flex Where, Flex When, Flex Well policy.  
  • A team member discount card that gives you a discount at Kmart, Target, Officeworks and Bunnings 
  • Access to the Kmart for You benefits program which entitles you to exclusive discounts and benefits in the areas of entertainment, travel, lifestyle, and health – with over 60 suppliers!  
  • We want you to feel rewarded for your commitment and hard work that's why eligible team members get the opportunity to participate in a bonus program 
  • We offer inclusive parental leave, and ongoing support offered though our partnership with Circle In for team members of all backgrounds and family circumstances  
  • A dynamic learning and support program 
  • Opportunity to fast track your career through our Mentor Program as a Mentee or Mentor 
  • A Kudos recognition program, where you are nominated by your peers to spin a wheel, to win a stack of cool prizes 
  • Great career opportunities across the broader Wesfarmers Group 


We celebrate the rich diversity of the communities in which we operate. We are committed to creating inclusive and safe environments where all our team members can contribute and succeed. We believe that all team members should feel valued, respected and safe, and strive to ensure our recruitment process is accessible and welcoming, with applications encouraged from all candidates.

We encourage you to tell us about any workplace adjustments that you would like, by emailing kmartgroupcareers@kmart.com.au.

If you would like to explore a career with Kmart and this sounds like the perfect role for you – apply now!

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