Manager – Health Policy in Sydney

Shape the future of healthcare policy. Influence reform. Champion doctors. Are you a policy professional looking to influence meaningful reform across the Australian health system? Avant is seeking a Manager, Health Policy to join our Advocacy and Impact team. This is a unique opportunity for someone with a background in government, health policy, ministerial advisory, regulation or advocacy to help shape policy outcomes that support doctors, improve patient care and strengthen the sustainability of Australia's healthcare system.

This is a health policy role, not a clinical one. It focuses on the design, performance and reform of the Australian health system, and the policy settings that support safe, high-quality healthcare and sustainable medical practice.

The opportunity

Drawing on member insights, research data and Avant's unique medico-legal expertise, you will translate complex issues into practical policy proposals and advocacy initiatives that support positive change. You will work closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure Avant remains a respected and influential voice on the issues affecting quality, safety and professionalism in healthcare including access to care and the sustainability of Australia's dual public, private health system. As a newly created role in a growing team, you'll have the opportunity to help define the position, build key relationships and contribute to a growing advocacy function that plays an important role in shaping healthcare policy nationally.

Key activities

• Identifying major challenges facing doctors and the health system and developing policy priorities for Avant
• Designing policy platforms and practical reform proposals that Avant can take to governments and other decision makers
• Building the evidence base for Avant's policy positions using research, member insights, claims data and expertise from across the organisation
• Analysing government policy and reform proposals and developing Avant's response where required
• Preparing submissions, policy papers, briefings and advice for senior leaders and the Chief Medical Officer
• Working with colleagues across advocacy, communications and the broader business to build support for and advance Avant's policy priorities

Experience required:

• 5+ years' experience in a health department, ministerial office, regulator, peak body, consultancy or similar policy environment
• Tertiary qualifications in public policy, political science, law, economics, public health or a related discipline
• Strong knowledge of the Australian healthcare system, including Commonwealth and State responsibilities, Medicare, private health insurance and professional regulation
• Experience preparing policy papers, submissions, briefings and advice that have influenced decision‑making
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship‑building skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication capabilities
• Sound judgement, political acumen and the ability to navigate complex policy environments
• A clinical background is not required.

Why Avant?

Avant is Australia's largest doctor-owned organisation, supporting more than 100,000 doctors through insurance, education, advocacy and medico‑legal expertise. We bring a unique perspective to healthcare policy, combining member insights, claims experience and deep industry expertise to advocate for better outcomes for doctors, patients and the healthcare system. If you're looking for an opportunity to apply your policy expertise to complex healthcare challenges and help shape reforms that make a genuine difference, we'd love to hear from you.