Bio

Based in Sydney, Declan Flaherty is an experienced government relations practitioner specialising in Federal and NSW public policy.

Declan is known for providing commercially-focused, strategic advice that reflects both the policy environment and the realities of government decision-making. He places a strong emphasis on building trusted relationships and helping clients engage with government in a way that is credible, disciplined, and aligned to long-term strategic objectives.

Prior to joining Crestview, Declan was part of the Government and Industry Affairs team at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, where he advised senior leadership on key policy issues including payments reform, artificial intelligence, and ESG. He also prepared executives for various parliamentary hearings and ministerial engagements.

Declan has worked at the centre of government, including in two Federal Cabinet Ministers’ offices, where he developed a detailed understanding of policy development and decision-making at the highest levels. He has also worked for a national public affairs consultancy, offering clients advice on stakeholder engagement and influence across arrange of industry sectors.

He holds a Master of National Security Policy from the Australian National University and a Bachelor of Arts (American Studies and Economics) from The University of Sydney.