Beginning his career as a baggage handler for the airline company Ansett, John has a long history of standing up for what’s right. First joining the Transport Workers Union (TWU) over 30 years ago, John would go on to represent all transport workers, including aviation, gas, logistics, oil, passenger vehicles, road transport and waste, as the Victoria/Tasmania TWU branch secretary, and later TWU national president.

Under his stewardship, the TWU saw key wins for all transport workers. These wins ranged from wage rises, improved safety for drivers, championing conditions during the pandemic and fighting against the exploitation of gig economy workers. Moreover, having served as an industry super fund board member, John understands the importance of sustainable governance, as well as the necessity of transparent and robust financial management.

John takes the values and skills attained throughout his career fighting for workers, to the Victorian Parliament to represent and advocate for all those living in the southern metropolitan region.