Affairs of State has a team of experienced political and business advisors, with in depth knowledge of the workings of the political institutions in Melbourne, Canberra, London and Washington.

We have wide ranging networks that connect you directly with decision-makers. Affairs of State offers unique insight, knowledge and strategic advice based on on-going participation in many industry associations and discussions impacting on issues affecting our clients in Australasia, Europe and America.

The Team

Alistair Urquhart

Managing Director, Affairs of State

Alistair Urquhart is a respected and independent public affairs professional with over 20 years experience both in Australia and overseas.

Alistair graduated from the Australian National University in Canberra, in Law, History and Politics, was admitted as a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of Victoria, and remains a (non-practicing) member of the Law Institute of Victoria. Before that, he graduated from high school in Bethesda, Maryland, and had many opportunities to become aware of the workings of Washington DC.

Alistair has considerable experience of counselling clients on a wide range of issues, from stakeholder mapping to crisis communications. He has strong analytical skills and is highly proficient at understanding new developments in the marketplace and identifying the associated public policy issues. Alistair is able to work closely with clients to develop programmes that deliver consistently strong messages to key stakeholders, which are aligned with his client's strategic objectives.

He is a fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and a member of the Australian Institute of Public Administration. He is Chairman of the Victorian division of the Australian Institute of Energy and Chairman of WISE Employment, which is an Australian disability employment service which has recently developed business in the United Kingdom.

Hamish Brooks

Associate Editor, Publications

As point man on AoS publications Letter From Melbourne and Letter From Canberra, Hamish keeps himself abreast of political events, public policy and the media in Victoria and Australia.

Office Support Staff

Advisors & Consultants

Affairs of State keeps a panel of advisors and consultants for our public affairs and publications business.