My family

John’s family is a priority. The importance of a stable family environment is brought home to him after many years of happy marriage to Pam, and parenting their two wonderful daughters.

Born and raised in the Mallee at Red Cliffs, John received his education at Red Cliffs Primary School and later at Mildura Technical School. His professional qualifications include a Master of Science (Aberdeen), Bachelor of Engineering (Melbourne), a Diploma of Civil Engineering, and the publication of a number of professional papers.

Professional Background

John worked as a Consulting Engineer prior to entering Parliament. His career included a successful private practice, specialising in irrigation development, subdivision, town planning and structural design.

John also spent time lecturing with Ballarat College of Advanced Education and time as a Design Engineer with the SEC.

John’s areas of engineering interest include irrigation, water resources management, hydro-electric power generation, and environmental sustainability.

Previous Local Government service includes three years as a councillor with the Swan Hill Rural City Council and service as a member of the Swan Hill Water Board.

Parliamentary Responsibilities

Following the Federal Election in October 2004, John was re-elected to the position of Chief Whip of The Nationals and held this position until August 11, 2006.  

A challenging position which involved co-ordination of members in the House of Representatives, organisation of speakers for legislation tabled in this Chamber, administration of Party meetings and other activities of The Nationals, and general Secretariat duties for the Party.

Other responsibilities John held included membership of a number of Parliamentary Committees, including the Joint Standing Committee on Public Works, Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters and the Standing Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry, as well as membership on a number of policy committees including Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry.

Following the Federal Election in November 2007, John was appointed the Shadow Parliamentary Secretary to the Shadow Minister for Trade, the Hon. Ian MacFarlane MP, and elected House of Representatives Standing Committee Member for Primary Industries and Resources.