The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) works in partnership with 15 National Boards to implement the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme for health professionals. We protect the public by ensuring only practitioners with the appropriate skills, qualifications and expertise are registered to provide safe care.

The Government Relations team plays a critical role in connecting Ahpra and the National Boards with Commonwealth, state and territory governments, national secretariats and key stakeholders. The team provides strategic advice and coordination to support effective, trusted engagement with governments and strengthen confidence in the National Scheme.

We are seeking a Program Manager, Government Relations to join Ahpra in a full-time, permanent opportunity, open to any Ahpra office location.

Reporting to the National Director, Engagement and Government Relations, this is a senior role responsible for leading and managing a portfolio of government relations activity within a complex, national regulatory environment. You will provide authoritative advice, lead strategic engagement initiatives, and support Ahpra executives and National Boards in their interactions with governments across Australia.

In this role, you will work at a senior level with government departments, secretariats and stakeholders, leading key projects, briefings and national engagement activities. You will play a central role in shaping Ahpra’s approach to government relations by providing trusted advice and a coordinated approach that supports informed decision-making and strengthens confidence in the National Scheme.

You will lead the delivery of strategic government relations initiatives, build and maintain effective relationships across Commonwealth, state and territory jurisdictions, and engage with national secretariats at a senior level. You will also oversee the preparation of high-quality briefings and advice, manage responses to government-led initiatives and inquiries, and work collaboratively across Ahpra to ensure a consistent, organisation-wide approach to government engagement and policy matters.

As the ideal candidate, you will demonstrate:

• strong experience in government relations, public policy or strategic engagement within a complex environment
• sound understanding of government processes, with the ability to engage across Commonwealth, state and territory departments and agencies
• excellent written and verbal communication skills, including delivering high-quality briefings and advisory materials
• well-developed analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to provide clear, authoritative advice on complex or sensitive issues
• strong relationship management and influencing capability, including engagement at a senior level
• proven ability to lead projects, manage competing priorities and collaborate effectively to deliver outcomes

You bring a strategic and adaptable approach, underpinned by sound judgement, strong integrity and a collaborative mindset. You navigate complexity with confidence, build trusted relationships, and provide clear, considered advice that supports effective government engagement and outcomes for the National Scheme.

Read more about this role in the position description: Program Manager - Government Relations (CL8)

What we offer

• A supportive and flexible working culture that supports a balance between work and personal commitments
• Hybrid work environment - blend of office and work from home means the best of both worlds
• Central office locations and with modern, open plan work spaces
• Attractive base salary starting at $155,869 per annum plus superannuation.

To apply

• Click ‘Apply Now’ to submit your application.
• Your application must include a current resume and cover letter of no more than 2 pages addressing the Qualifications/Experience section of the role description
• Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa. Work eligibility will be checked as part of the recruitment process
• For any queries or a confidential discussion regarding this position, please email [email protected] using the subject line: Program Manager - Government Relations - Flexible Location enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Offer of employment is subject to successful background (pre-employment screening) and Criminal History checks.

Ahpra requires all employees to comply with Ahpra policies, including the Flexible working policy

Ahpra is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. We strongly encourage people of all abilities to apply, particularly people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, and those who may experience diversity or disability related barriers in securing employment. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at time of application.

With respect, no agencies please.