New Director appointed to lead government relations at CDU

A new Director has been appointed to lead Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) government relations, in a newly-established role that will drive partnership opportunities across all levels of Northern Territory and Federal government.

As Director of Government Relations, Ms Bree Willsmore will build, maintain and capitalise on the University’s relationships with local representatives, Territory ministers and the federal parliament.

The role is a first for the university, and offers a fresh perspective on stakeholder engagement.

“This is an exciting opportunity to extend the strong government partnerships CDU has already established,” Ms Willsmore said.

“We’re putting our best foot forward as the University of the Territory, and it is vital that we continue to develop and prioritise our relationship with government at all levels – for now and the future.”

At CDU, she will play a key role in implementing an effective government engagement strategy through leading priority projects and scoping new opportunities.

Ms Willsmore will be instrumental in guiding the University’s government relations for the Education and Community Precinct, a $250 million-dollar centrepiece of the Darwin City Deal which will attract community partnerships, international stakeholders, educators and an influx of students to the Darwin CBD.

She will also be involved in CDU’s advocacy for Commonwealth Supported medical places to support the CDU Menzies School of Medicine, a homegrown medical program in the Northern Territory.

“My role will strategically support CDU to foster government relationships, which will in turn benefit staff, students, the Darwin community and many Territorians who come to CDU for the best education the Territory can offer.”

Ms Willsmore brings a breath of experience from within the public service in State and Commonwealth Governments, and within Commonwealth Ministers Offices.

She has worked across social policy reform in the Australian Government Department of Social Services, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), and the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

CDU Vice-Chancellor Professor Scott Bowman has welcomed the appointment, and said Ms Willsmore will break new ground in her proactive engagement with government stakeholders.

“Ms Willsmore’s knowledge and expertise will expand existing government partnerships to nurture our strategic priorities as a university,” Professor Bowman said.

“She will be an asset to CDU and ensure close government partnerships advance our research, training, and teaching capabilities, with great education outcomes for the Territory.”