A Message From Bob

Australia and the electorate of Macquarie voted overwhelmingly in favour of a Rudd Labor Government at the federal election on November 24. I believe this result reflects the national desire for strong, compassionate leadership and policies based on fairness and balance.

The campaign for Macquarie was a great challenge. The seat was expanded significantly through redistribution, amalgamating parts of the former Macquarie and Calare electorates. Volunteers were unstinting in supporting our small campaign team. I was constantly heartened by the commitment of the many people who helped in so many ways — such as working on street stalls and in our campaign offices, letterboxing, doorknocking, handing out material at train stations and shopping centres and staffing the polling booths.

Together, our efforts have resulted in a fresh new Labor Government that will restore Australia's place as a world-leader on important issues such as climate change, fairness at work, health and education. I am excited and challenged at the prospect of making a personal contribution, both as the Member for Macquarie and as the Minister for Home Affairs.

Once again, thank you for your support.

Bob Debus

A Distinguished Track Record

Bob Debus was born in Ryde and educated at Homebush Boys High before studying Arts and Law at the University of Sydney. He has lived in the electorate of Macquarie for over 30 years.

Bob has worked as a lawyer, an editor for Angus and Robertson Publishing and a radio broadcaster for the ABC. He has worked for the community as National Director of the aid agencies Australian Freedom from Hunger and Community Aid Abroad. As a NSW MP and Minister, Bob worked to modernise hospitals, improve schools, upgrade the Great Western Highway and enhance welfare services.

As NSW Attorney General for seven years he oversaw the passage of 258 legal bills through the NSW Parliament, one-third of all bills passed by the NSW Parliament. He undertook a wave of reform including changes to the sexual assault laws to protect victims, set up Australia’s first Aboriginal circle sentencing systems and established the special commission of inquiry into James Hardie to ensure justice for asbestos victims.

As Environment Minister for eight years, Bob expanded the national park system by almost two-thirds, creating new parks on the north and south coasts and, more recently, in western NSW. Almost 40 per cent of the coastline of NSW is now part of a national park.