Australian Federal Government - Member For Perth

Australian Federal Government - Member For Perth

Federal Member for Perth

Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Western Australia

Shadow Parliamentary Secretary Regional Development and Infrastructure

Born and raised in Melbourne, I came to Western Australia when I was 18, seeking a bit of adventure. It was so alive, sunny and full of good natured people, I have lived here pretty much ever since.

I have worked in factories, on checkouts, in bars and restaurants, and even vegetable picking, and learned a lot in the process. I worked for some years in Federal Government in Aboriginal employment and training throughout Western Australia. I also started a local newspaper which eventually became the Guardian Express. When I completed my law degree I practiced in commercial law for 7 years in a Perth law firm where I became a partner.

I have always believed that in a democracy you canâ??t just wait for someone else to do something â?? so I have been active in community and politics since my teenage years.

My public life began in 1988 with a five year stint on the Perth City Council. I started my 17 years in the State Parliament in 1993, first in the Legislative Council and then as the Member for Armadale in the Legislative Assembly.

From 2001-2008, I had the privilege of serving as WAâ??s Minister for Planning and Infrastructure â?? implementing a triple bottom line agenda and overseeing many fantastic projects across the state to deliver that agenda.

I was back in local government for two years as Mayor of Vincent, a position that I enjoyed immensely as we focussed on energising our urban villages.

I agreed to contest the Federal election for the Federal seat of Perth in 2013, so I am back in the fray again â?? fighting for action on climate change, investment in effective, quality education and a fair deal for WA.
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