A Day in the Life of Gillian Communications Officer

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I am originally from Townsville in North Queensland. I relocated to Sydney after university with my partner when we were both 21.

Over the past 24 years I’ve worked in marketing communications in NSW Government agencies, not-for-profit organisations and overseas.

We spent two years living and working in London where I worked for Transport for London (and also made the most of travel opportunities across Europe!). When we lived in Switzerland, I worked for IMD Business School, which was ranked equal first with Harvard at the time.

Prior to joining ADNSW I was the Manager, Internal Communications for NSW Health.

Why did you join Anti-Discrimination NSW?

I like to work for organisations that have a strong sense of purpose and do good in the world – and it’s really important that my work aligns with my values.

Joining ADNSW gave me the opportunity to work across the communications spectrum and make a difference to the lives of people who have experienced discrimination. As the role is part time, it also gave me the opportunity to have a better work/life balance and spend more time with my kids.

Can you describe your role?

I job share with my colleague Afrah and together we deliver communications for ADNSW.

My role involves managing media enquiries, writing social media content and producing our monthly newsletter, Equal Time (although this month Afrah has kindly produced the newsletter).

I joined ADNSW in February this year. The last nine months have been very busy launching our new website, creating new explainer videos and Easy Read resources, producing our Annual Report and developing online enquiry and complaint forms which have just been released.

What do you like most about your job?

I love the work I do and the people I work with.

As part of my social media remit, I get to interact with ADNSW clients and help them along their journey. I also love interviewing stakeholders for Equal Time.

What keeps you busy outside of work?

Until recently I volunteered on a Thursday and ran the Rainbow Families Playgroup in Erskineville. Now that both of my kids are at school, I’m busy helping with homework and running them around to gymnastics and swimming lessons.

My favourite thing to do is get out and enjoy nature. Recently we did the most fabulous walk in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and swam at the stunning Resolute Beach. Last weekend we went camping at Toowoon Bay on the Central Coast.