Medicines Australia appoints Director of Public Affairs and Government Relations
21 April 2026: Medicines Australia is very pleased to announce the appointment of Liam Houlihan as its new Director of Public Affairs and Government Relations, bringing significant senior political capability and editorial news experience to the organisation.
Liam has extensive expertise in health policy as the Chief of Staff to The Hon. Bill Shorten from 2019 to 2024. During this period, Mr Shorten was a member of Federal Cabinet holding the portfolios of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and Government Services.
Liam is also an award-winning journalist and author. Prior to his position as the Chief of Staff, Liam worked as Editor for News Corp, leading the prestigious news banners – as a News Editor of the Herald Sun and the Editor of the Geelong Advertiser. For the last 18 months he was contracted to manage Government Services for a Top 100 ASX Company.
“We are thrilled to have someone of Liam’s calibre join the Medicines Australia team. His direct experience and responsibilities working in a senior role for a Cabinet Minister, together with his news media background, brings a very senior and unique skillset to Medicines Australia,” said Medicines Australia CEO Liz de Somer.
This is an extremely important time for us as an organisation and adding further senior talent to the team is our priority to secure greater patient access to new and innovative medicines,” she adds.
Liam starts the position on 22 April 2026.
For further information or media interviews, please contact:
Jonathan Hawkes
M: 0434 660 801
E: jonathan.hawkes@medicinesaustralia.com.au