Alys Gagnon

Alys leads one of Essential’s campaign teams and has over 20 years experience spanning politics, journalism and advocacy. She has been at the centre of major shifts in early childhood policy in Australia, both through her work at Essential for Thrive by Five and in her previous role as Executive Director of The Parenthood, the nation’s largest independent voice for parents. Alys has particular expertise in earned media, government relations and community engagement strategy. Alys has also worked as an editor in women’s media, advised federal parliamentarians and served as a National Organiser with the ALP.