Former McGowan adviser turns lobbyist

Premier Mark McGowan's former director of strategy has resurfaced to spearhead a new branch of eastern states lobbying company Anacta.

Mark Reed, who quit the premier's office last month, becomes a director of Anacta, which is known for its close ties to the Queensland Labor government. 

“Mark offers an unrivalled understanding of government and the political landscape in Western Australia,” said Anacta founder, former Queensland MP and government adviser Evan Moorhead.

Betting giant Tabcorp, which is said to be interested in buying the TAB from the state government, has been on Anacta's list of clients.

Lucy Marshall, who also worked for the McGowan government as an electorate officer, and lawyer Philippa Clarke, also join the lobbying, consulting and public affairs company.

“With Phillipa and Lucy also joining the Perth office, Anacta will provide our clients with specialist insight here in Western Australia as well as access to a formidable skillset drawn from our teams across Australia and New Zealand," Mr Reed said.

“Opening an office with Anacta with Philippa and Lucy is an exciting opportunity.

"We look forward to offering clients a full suite of public affairs services, powered by a team that really understands WA.” 

Anacta found itself in the firing line this year, when concerns about its links to the Palaszcuk government were publicly raised. The Queensland premier suspended dealing with Anacta lobbyists on the back of a report into public sector culture and accountability.

Mr Reed has been a Labor Party operative for more than a decade and it was understood he resigned from Mr McGowan's office to spend more time with his family. 

He has also worked for the powerful left faction United Workers Union and joined the premier's office following the 2017 election win. 

Anacta has offices in Brisbane, Canberra and New Zealand after Mr Moorhead founded the buinsess in 2019.