KATRINA BYERS CONSULTING

Katrina Byers Consulting is a Melbourne, Australia-based public relations and communications firm that has been operating since 1994. The agency specializes in media training, executive communication training, and issues and crisis management. With a strong foundation in journalism—principal Katrina Byers worked as a national finance and political reporter for the ABC and was a presenter on the consumer advocacy program "The Investigators"—the firm brings a deep understanding of media dynamics to its work. It serves a diverse range of sectors, including financial services, health, legal, education, emergency services, oil and gas, defence, and professional services, offering strategic communication advice and campaign execution tailored to each client's needs.

Specialized Services in Media and Executive Training

Katrina Byers Consulting is best known for its media training and executive presentation skills programs. The agency has extensive experience working with senior leaders, including a notable seven-year engagement delivering a national media training program for the command level of the Australian Defence Force. Services are designed to help executives and spokespeople communicate effectively under pressure, whether in interviews, public presentations, or crisis situations. The firm also provides strategic communication advice and campaign execution, particularly for clients navigating issues or crises. A broad suite of media relations and strategic communications services is available on a need basis, offering flexibility to clients who require targeted support without a long-term retainer.

Issues and Crisis Management Expertise

Issues and crisis management is a core focus for Katrina Byers Consulting. The agency helps organizations prepare for and respond to reputational challenges, drawing on the principal's journalistic background to anticipate media angles and stakeholder concerns. Services in this area include crisis communication planning, message development, spokesperson training, and real-time counsel during incidents. The firm's approach is practical and hands-on, emphasizing clear, consistent communication to maintain trust and credibility. Clients in sectors such as emergency services, oil and gas, and defence often require this specialized support, and Katrina Byers Consulting has a track record of delivering effective outcomes in high-stakes environments.

Services Offered by Katrina Byers Consulting

• Media training and coaching
• Executive presentation skills training
• Issues and crisis management
• Strategic communication advice
• Media relations campaigns
• Crisis communication planning and execution
• Spokesperson training
• Message development and positioning

Methodology and Approach

The methodology at Katrina Byers Consulting is grounded in real-world media experience. Training programs are scenario-based, often using simulated interviews or crisis simulations to build confidence and competence. The firm emphasizes practical skills rather than theoretical concepts, ensuring participants can apply what they learn immediately. For crisis management, the approach involves thorough risk assessment, proactive planning, and rapid response strategies. Given the principal's background in national finance and political reporting, there is a particular strength in handling complex, high-pressure communications. The agency tailors its services to each client's industry and specific challenges, avoiding one-size-fits-all solutions.

Katrina Byers Consulting is a good fit for organizations that need to strengthen their leadership communication capabilities, particularly in media-facing roles. It suits companies in regulated or high-stakes industries such as finance, healthcare, legal, defence, and energy, where reputation management is critical. The firm is also ideal for businesses facing a specific crisis or issue that requires expert strategic counsel and hands-on support. Based at 710 Collins St, Melbourne, Australia, the agency serves clients across the country and has a proven track record with both large corporations and public sector entities. Its longevity since 1994 reflects sustained demand for its specialized services in media training and crisis communication.