I first joined the ALP in 1990 and am now a member of the Beltana Branch. I was attracted by Labor’s objectives – bringing better standards of living, greater opportunities for education and health care, and lending a helping hand to people in need.

I am proud to be a founding member of Emily’s List, an organisation that provides financial and mentoring support to progressive Labor women candidates across Australia.

I was first elected to the Tasmanian Parliament in 1996. I was 23 years old and the youngest woman ever elected to an Australian Parliament. I combined my early parliamentary career with completing the final stages of my Arts and Law Degrees at the University of Tasmania.

Learning the hard way, I lost my seat at the 1998 election. It was a bittersweet moment to see Labor returned to government, but to not be a part of it. Following my loss, I spent a year working in the United Kingdom before returning to campaign for re-election to the House of Assembly in 2002.

I worked hard and had great support from the community. As a result I was successful and re-elected to represent the people of Franklin. This is an honour I still hold today.

In 2004, I became Minister for Economic Development and the Arts and after the 2006 State Election, I became Minister for Health and Human Services.

Today, I have a broad portfolio as Tasmania’s Deputy Premier, Minister for Health, Attorney General and Minister for Justice.

It’s a big responsibility, but I love the challenge.

It is a great privilege to serve the Tasmanian community. And I have the chance to make a real difference in the health and social outcomes of our wonderful State.

I’m committed to continue working with you to build a strong Franklin and a better future for Tasmania.