05 March 2025
About
Consumers Health Forum of Australia (CHF) is the national peak body representing health consumers. We work to make sure healthcare is accessible, affordable, and safe by telling the stories of everyday Australians to help influence health policy and services. Consumer voices are essential in shaping discussions about healthcare, and when consumers tell their stories in public and political spaces, it raises awareness and strengthens our advocacy efforts.
CHF is often approached by journalists looking for health consumers to share their experiences. With healthcare a major topic in the upcoming election, there is more media interest and more chances for consumers to be heard. We are now looking for consumers who are willing to share their healthcare experiences, both during the election period, and for future media opportunities as they arise.
We also understand that not everyone is comfortable sharing their story with the media but would like to help CHF in its advocacy work. We would also like to hear from consumers who would like to share their story with us so that CHF can share their story across the CHF website and social media channels.
You don’t have to have previous experience working with the media. We are happy to hear from consumers with different experience levels, but who all have a willingness to share their story with CHF and the media.
The opportunity and your role
We are looking for consumers who are willing to share their personal health experiences with the media.
This could include:
The impact of healthcare costs on your life
Barriers to accessing or affording healthcare
Other challenges you face in the health system
Your experience living with an illness or chronic condition
Your experience caring for someone with an illness or chronic condition.
CHF only works with trusted journalists and ensures that consumer voices are heard in a respectful way. We will work with you to understand your story and level of comfort with media engagement. No prior media experience is required, as we will provide guidance to support you in sharing your story. Your participation speaking with the media is always up to you and you can change your mind at any time. You will never be asked to do an interview you are not comfortable doing.
Consumers will be remunerated for pre-briefing/preparation and post-media debriefing at the Commonwealth Tribunal Rate of $92.80 per hour.
To apply and for further information
Please fill out the expression of interest form below with your answers to the following questions:
Are you willing to share your story with CHF and the media?
Are you comfortable for CHF to share your story on their website and social media platforms?
Are you available to be contacted during work hours?
Have you had experience speaking to the media?
What types of media are you interested in participating in?
Comments for newspaper articles
Comments for social media
Pre-recorded videos
Audio/voice recordings
Radio news programs
We’d like to hear a bit about you and your experience as a healthcare consumer. Please share with us what you are comfortable sharing. We’d love to hear about how you manage your health, any health conditions you might have, how you work with your health practitioners and how you can or can’t access and afford your healthcare needs.
If you have any queries, please contact Public Affairs Manager, Ben Graham, at b.graham@chf.org.au.
Expressions of Interest close at 8am AEDT on Monday 17 March 2025.
