I entered Parliament after more than 20 years in business and community leadership, but I’m a family man first and foremost. I’m deeply committed to the Sunshine Coast and my vision is to see our region become “the healthiest place on earth”. I believe strongly in civil society and in helping individuals and communities realise their potential by taking control of their own future. And I’ve always been clear about this: I am the Sunshine Coast’s man in Canberra - not Canberra’s man on the Sunshine Coast.
I grew up the youngest of nine children and my first job was as a trainee baker in the family business, before building an international business career spanning over two decades in trade, investment and technology.
This real-world experience in running businesses, negotiating commercial deals, creating jobs and delivering growth has influenced my approach public service today - focused on outcomes, not headlines.
My wife Sophia and I chose to live on the Sunshine Coast because we love the local community. It represents the best of Australia. We live in Buderim with our three young children, and like so many parents, we care deeply about their future.
From day one as a parliamentarian, my commitment has been clear: to be the Sunshine Coast’s representative in Canberra, not Canberra’s representative on the Sunshine Coast.
Delivering for the Sunshine Coast means securing investments that create tangible improvements to local residents’ way of live and their standard of living.
Some of the big-ticket items I have delivered are worth billions of dollars and include major upgrades to the Bruce Highway and the Beerburrum to Nambour rail line, and upgrades to the airport so it can handle international flights.
I led successful campaigns for a new rail line along the coastal strip and a new multi-purpose convention centre in Maroochydore, which are set to be completed by 2032.
Working with the community to address local issues means a lot to me. Recently I fought to protect off-leash access at Stumers Creek, to help locals find jobs after the collapse of local manufacturer Zone RV, and to raise funds for the Sunny Coast Sleeper to assist the homeless in Nambour.
Representation matters most when it is personal. This is why I hold regular mobile offices, attend local events, convene community forums and stay connected through direct updates and conversations across the electorate.
The Sunshine Coast is growing rapidly, and this presents both opportunities and challenges. More needs to be done to build transport infrastructure and housing, while also protecting our lifestyle and environment and delivering public services.
Together, we can do this, not just for ourselves, but for the next generation.
