Medicines Australia taps cultural strategist to lead communications amid HTA reform push

Medicines Australia has appointed Rachael Coghlan as its new Communications Director, adding to its Executive Team as the organisation ramps up strategic efforts ahead of a federal election and in the wake of long-awaited Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Review reforms. She officially commenced in the role on 28 April.

An award-winning leader in the cultural and creative sectors, Coghlan brings a unique blend of executive experience, board leadership, research credentials and public engagement expertise to the innovative medicines industry. Based in Canberra, she is recognised for successfully executing strategic renewal and commercial programs across diverse organisations.

“We are thrilled to welcome Rachael to the Medicines Australia team and have someone of such a high calibre to bring a new emphasis to our strategic communication campaigns. As the momentum now builds on our HTA Reform priorities having the best strategic communications capabilities within our organisation is imperative,” said Liz de Somer, CEO of Medicines Australia.

Coghlan’s previous leadership roles include steering the transformation of public engagement at Parliament House, where she implemented a renewal of visitor services, retail strategies, tourism offerings and external partnerships. As CEO of Craft ACT, she expanded the DESIGN Canberra festival, and strengthened the organisation’s philanthropic and stakeholder base.

Her arrival at Medicines Australia comes at a critical time. Over two and a half years since the HTA Review began and six months after its recommendations were delivered, Australians are still waiting on meaningful government action. With an imminent federal election, the need for strong, strategic communication and consistent advocacy is essential in driving the implementation plan forward.

“It’s a great privilege to be joining Medicines Australia and working at such a critical time with the organisation’s members to ensure Australians have access to the latest medicines through the PBS,” said Coghlan. “Progressing the early success of the #strongerPBS campaign will be an extremely rewarding and immediate priority.”

Coghlan holds a PhD in museum studies from the Australian National University, where she was also a visiting fellow. Her doctoral thesis on museum audience participation earned her the National Award for Research from the Australian Museums and Galleries Association. She was also recognised with the Clem Cummings Award by the Australian Institute of Architects for her contributions to architecture and the public interest.

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