An Independent Member for Curtin
aBOUT KATE
I am WA’s first female Independent Federal Member of Parliament in the House of Representatives. I am proud to represent the community of Curtin, which stretches from the edge of Perth to the Indian Ocean, bordered by the Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River), from Mosman Park to Gwelup.
Entry into politics
In January 2022 I was approached by a grassroots community group - Curtin Independent - to run as an independent candidate in Curtin. For some time, I had been frustrated with the divisive culture of politics - particularly the lack of sound, long-term decisions being made for Australia’s future.
In a community-driven campaign I ran on a platform of real climate action, integrity and transparency in politics, future-focused economic management and a commitment to building more connected, compassionate communities.
After a four-month campaign, I was selected to represent Curtin in Federal Parliament, with a 15.2% swing.
Kate won the seat of Curtin
with a 15.2% swing
“We can't be paralysed into inaction by fear of unpopularity or criticism.”
EDUCATION AND Career history
I grew up in Curtin, in a family that values service to community. I attended John XXIII College and studied arts and law at the University of Western Australia.
My career in law, strategy, management and community services, prepared me well for Parliament.
As a lawyer, I have advised companies on mergers and commercial agreements and at Redfern Legal Centre advised individuals on credit and debt matters.
As a strategy consultant at Boston Consulting Group, I led projects relating to commercial problems in Sydney board rooms and social issues in remote communities in Cape York.
In the private sector, I developed Reconciliation Action Plans and a sustainability strategy for Wesfarmers, one of Australia’s largest companies.
In the community services sector I managed strategy and innovation at Anglicare WA and worked in partnership with government on innovative service design.
Through these jobs, I have learned different approaches to solving complex problems and how to build consensus. I have learned about the deep disadvantages experienced by some and the challenges in building support systems to reduce those disadvantages.
My career has taught me that there is rarely a black and white answer, there is always room to improve a solution after consultation and there is no one right way of thinking. These are useful lessons as I represent Curtin.