Jenny Macklin

Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs
Minister for Disability Reform

Jenny was born in Brisbane and grew up in country Victoria. She went to university in Melbourne, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce with Honours.

Prior to entering parliament, Jenny was an advisor to the Victorian Minister for Health and was responsible for a national review of Australia's health system. She also directed a policy review for the Federal Government into urban and regional development.

“I want children to get the best possible start in life. I want families to get the support they need to make ends meet. I want older Australians to have security in retirement. These are the hallmarks of a strong and fair society - and it's what Labor is working for every day.”

Jenny was elected to parliament in 1996, and has been a leading Labor figure in the areas of Indigenous reconciliation, fairness for people with a disability and support for Australian families. This year she passed the National Disability Insurance Scheme into law.

In addition to her family, Jenny's great passions in life are camping, swimming and music. She is a life-long Geelong supporter and enjoys bodysurfing.