I was first elected to Federal Parliament in 2007 and was the first woman elected to the Federal seat of Franklin.

I entered politics because I deeply believe that your postcode or your income bracket should not determine the quality of services available to you. Quality education, decent health services and fairness in the workplace should be available to everyone.

From a young age, I came to realise that too often being poor was a barrier to accessing decent services. I entered politics to make sure that no one else has to experience what I did. Throughout my career in politics, I've worked tirelessly to help improve the lives of others and will continue to do so. As an active local Member, I bring dedication and energy to the task of improving the lives of the people of Franklin. I am humbled to have been made the first Tasmanian Cabinet Minister since 2001.

I live locally on the Eastern Shore with my husband Ian and my three children.