Matt Thistlethwaite

Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs

Matt was born and raised in Maroubra, in the south east of Sydney. He holds a Bachelor of Economics from the University of New South Wales and a Diploma in Law. He was the first of his family to attend university.

Matt came to politics through his involvement in community organisations. He has been active surf lifesaver for 28 years and a former President of Maroubra Surf Lifesaving Club and Maroubra PCYC.

"Community volunteers are the glue that bind together business, governments and communities to make our society a better place. I am passionate about supporting community groups and advancing the interests of the vulnerable and disadvantaged" Senator Thistlethwaite said.

Matt has extensive experience representing workers as a former lawyer and trade union official across a range of industries.

“My time as a Union organiser allowed me to develop a thorough appreciation of the issues and challenges facing business, workers and their families.”

Some of Matt’s most important work has been representing workers in minimum wage cases.  He fought to make sure the voices of low paid workers were heard.
He lives in Sydney with his wife Rachel and their two daughters Amelie and Scarlett.