“I grew up in Airport West, I have lived in and loved this community my entire life.
It is an honour to represent you in the Parliament of Victoria and I am determined to deliver all that I can to the electorate that has delivered so much for me.”
I am a big believer in everyone getting a go, no matter their circumstance - where they are from, how they were raised or where they attended school.
Growing up in Airport West, from a young age I was taught the value of hard work and the importance of a caring community. My dad was an electrician, running a small business and my mum worked at Glenroy West Primary School.
I attended Airport West Kindergarten, St Christopher’s Primary School, and St Bernard’s Secondary College and began my 7-year stint at Kmart Airport West at 14 years and 9 months old before going to study at La Trobe University. I have played Aussie rules football, basketball and other sports representing my local area. It has been this local community that has brought me the education, security, and friendships that I cherish today.
Recently, I was honoured to accept the appointment as the Lead Minister for the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions which includes economic portfolios that make a real difference to the lives of all Victorians. The portfolios of Industry Support, and Business Precincts will be added to my responsibilities.
This new appointment is in addition to my role with the Department of Transport as Minister for Public Transport, Roads and Road Safety and I will see through the job we started - delivering better public transport options for our local communities.
When at its best, public transport can enrich communities, bringing culture and diversity to our towns, connecting us to bigger and better things like job opportunities, healthcare and time with family and friends. Additionally, public transport addresses a larger set of issues including traffic congestion, pollution, and economic development. Our government is leading the way in renewable energy, and it is a key focus of our public transport strategy.
Locally, I will continue to strive to unlock the benefits of the Melbourne Airport Rail and advocate for a future train station in our community. I am also continuing to work through the complex issues with our trams including accessible trams on the #57 and #59 lines.
Year after year, I have been getting on with the job. There is always more to do.
It is an honour and privilege to represent our community in parliament, and I am especially grateful for the support of my family.