About

In a past life, I was an aspiring musician that published music and toured Canada and the United States. Click here to listen to some of it on Spotify.

Want to get in touch? matt.austman@outlook.com

Who I Am

I am a lawyer with an extensive background in public policy, politics and communications.

I started my career working for not-for-profits with small budgets and big aspirations. Over the years, I’ve contributed to many progressive campaigns and initiatives that have won and lost. All have taught me valuable lessons and skills that guide my work today as a lawyer and advocate.

I am currently an Associate with Mandell Pinder LLP, a nationally recognized Aboriginal law firm. I completed my articles with the firm and was called to the British Columbia bar in 2024.

I hold a J.D. from the University of Ottawa, a Master of Arts from York University (Political Science) and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from the University of Winnipeg (Political Science, Human Rights & Global Studies). My master’s research focused on the impact of s. 718.2(e) and R v Gladue (1999, 1 SCR 688) on Indigenous incarceration rates in Canada.

Expertise

Aboriginal & Administrative Law

Issues Management

Government & Stakeholder Relations

Public & Media Relations

Experience

Associate at Mandell Pinder LLP (2024 – Present; Articling Student, 2023-2024)

Board member at John Howard Society of Manitoba (2021 – Present)

Researcher at Oceans North (2021-2023)
Legal and policy research and analysis.

Communications at Manitoba Nurses Union (2018 – 2021)
Developed and implemented communications strategies and campaigns.

Board Member at Functional Transit Winnipeg (2018 – 2022; Vice-President 2021 – 2022)
Provided strategic advice and contributing to organizing efforts for the volunteer-run advocacy group.

Communications & Fundraising at New Democratic Party of Manitoba (2015 – 2018)
Coordinated internal & external communications for political campaigns, conventions, and other political activities.

Graduate Assistant at York University (2014 – 2015)
Assisted the Centre for Feminist Research with comparative research on labour and employment regulations.

Project Coordinator at Friends of Sherbrook Pool Inc. (2013 – 2014)
Successfully coordinated a campaign to reopen the inner-city recreation facility in Winnipeg.

Click here for my full CV