Member for Page
Janelle is the Federal Member for Page. She was born and bred in Ipswich, Queensland, and has lived in Lismore for the past 35 years - long enough, in her words, ‘to be a local.’
Janelle left school at 13 and held all manner of jobs, including working at the local meatworks, in hairdressing, and at a pineapple factory. She pursued further education in her 20s, gaining qualifications in teaching and law.
Janelle’s legal career has included work as a solicitor and advocate from local to international level with a particular focus on human rights.
Janelle has been active in the Australian Labor Party since 1982 and served in the NSW Legislative Council from 1995 to 2003. From 2004 until 2007, Janelle was senior political adviser to His Excellency Dr Jose Ramos-Horta while the Nobel Laureate was Timor Leste’s Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, Prime Minister and President.
Janelle became the first female to represent the rural seat of Page, wresting it from the Nationals in 2007. As the local member, Janelle has done what she said she would do, and ensured Canberra pays attention to this area. She has attracted much needed services in health, education, and community infrastructure.
In August 2010 Janelle was re-elected to serve a second term as the Federal Member for Page.