MRS. JULIA IRWIN

Julia Irwin was born and raised in Western Sydney. She attended Cerdon College at Merrylands, leaving at the age of 16 to work in a bank while studying at night. From a staunch Labor family, Julia joined the ALP in 1966 at the age of 15, taking an active interest in issues including opposition to conscription.

Julia was founding secretary of Prospect-Werriwa Young Labor and has participated in the affairs of her branch, Federal and State Electorate Councils and Labor Women's Committee. She has held local branch and council positions during her 37 years of ALP membership.

Julia worked for a number of trade unions in the early 1970's, participating in the equal pay campaign of the time. She was appointed electorate secretary to NSW Deputy Premier Jack Ferguson in 1976.

During a break from full time work to start a family, Julia was active in many school and community projects as well as supporting her husband Geoff Irwin, a Member of the NSW Parliament (1984-1995).

Julia returned to work as an electorate officer for Federal Schools, Vocational Education and Training Minister, Ross Free (1989-1995) and Member for Fowler, Ted Grace (1995-98).

After more than 10 years as an electorate officer, listening to local people and community groups, fighting their battles and solving problems for them, Julia gained selection for the safe Labor seat of Fowler and was elected at the 1998 Federal election.

Employment, social justice and immigration issues are high on Julia's list of priorities in the Fowler electorate.

Married with two children and two grandchildren, Julia enjoys a range of interests centred on the community and her family.