Patient Advocacy and Government Relations Manager

Company Description Montu is one of Australia's leading health technology companies, focused on improving patient access to healthcare through innovation, telehealth, technology and evidence-based care. Operating at the intersection of healthcare, technology and public policy, Montu is actively shaping conversations around the future of alternative medicine regulation, telehealth delivery, patient access, and healthcare innovation in Australia. As the business continues to grow, government engagement and stakeholder advocacy have become increasingly important to ensuring that patient needs, clinical evidence and innovation are properly represented in policy discussions. This role sits within the Government Relations function and works directly alongside senior leadership to influence policy outcomes, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and help shape the future of healthcare regulation in Australia. This is a remote role, however we would ideally prefer a candidate based in Canberra who can attend Parliament House in Canberra 1–2 days per week. We are also open to candidates based in Sydney who are able to travel to Canberra as required. Job Description Montu’s Patient Advocacy & Government Relations Manager plays a critical role in fostering relationships and developing strategic partnerships with parliamentarians, government officials and patient associations aligned with our organisation’s mission. This role acts as a key contact for Government as well as the primary liaison between Montu and key stakeholder groups, driving collaboration on strategic projects and securing advocacy support for policy initiatives that improve patient outcomes. This role will involve developing and executing strategies to promote our company’s reputation, engage with external stakeholders, and ensure we continue to lead on relevant policy areas. Key Responsibilities Government Relations Support the Government Relations team in maintaining relationships with government and key stakeholders. Develop, drive, and implement the patient advocacy strategy. Identify opportunities for strategic partnerships that align with shared goals, such as patient education, support services, and in particular, access policy advocacy. Monitor and analyse legislative and regulatory changes that impact our industry and sector. Draft policy proposals, position papers, and briefings to influence policymakers and other government stakeholders. Assist with advocacy for policies that support our industry's interests, particularly growth and sustainability. Lead advocacy campaigns under the supervision of the Head of Government Relations. Work collaboratively cross-divisionally and/or cross-functionally to bring in critical patient insights to inform strategies and key decisions Patient Advocacy Lead the work cultivating, maintaining, and deepening relationships with patient advocacy groups and the broader community. Use patient stories, research, and real-world evidence to demonstrate the effectiveness of our medications in improving health outcomes. Developing and securing partnership agreements or formalised alliances with leading patient groups Mobilise support for policy changes through meaningful patient group engagement. Measure and increase advocacy for the company's policy initiatives. Utilise data, patient insights, and research to guide strategic policy decisions. Under supervision, research and draft policy proposals, position papers and briefings for consumption by executive government, patient advocacy groups, the broader medicinal cannabis industry and health sector. Internal Collaboration & Reporting Liaise with internal teams to ensure patient advocacy efforts align with business objectives and regulatory requirements. Provide insights and recommendations from patient advocacy organisations to inform decision-making and strategic planning. Track and report on partnership outcomes, project milestones, and advocacy progress. Qualifications Demonstrated experience in government relations, public affairs, parliamentary environments, advocacy, lobbying, ministerial offices, or policy advisory roles. Strong understanding of Australian political and policy processes, with the ability to navigate government, regulatory and stakeholder landscapes effectively. Proven ability to build and maintain influential relationships with government stakeholders, industry bodies, advocacy groups, and external partners. Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to engage credibly with senior decision-makers. Experience developing and executing advocacy, stakeholder engagement, or policy influence strategies that support organisational objectives. Strong project management and prioritisation skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives in a fast-paced and evolving environment. Demonstrated ability to operate autonomously, show initiative, and adapt quickly as political, regulatory or busin