Sam Rae
ALP Federal

Minister for Aged Care and Seniors

Safe

7.63% Margin

Elected 2022

4 years

Member for Hawke (VIC)

Federal - VIC

Sam was born on 26 September 1986 and grew up in Tuggeranong , ACT, alongside his two brothers. His mother was a teacher and a union activist, which he credits for his own union and political career.

Sam studied at the Australian National University (ANU), graduating in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science. He attained his Master of Business Administration from the University of Melbourne in 2016 and holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from the same university. Prior to entering politic...

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Portfolios

  • Minister for Aged Care and Seniors

Key Staff

  • Sharyn Broomhead

    Chief of Staff

    ****@****.gov.au

  • Matilda Edwards-Jezequel

    Deputy Chief of Staff

    ****@****.gov.au

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See It In Action

First Speech in Parliament

1 August 2022

# Indigenous Rights # Infrastructure Development # Labor Rights

Personal Background and Values

  • Sam Rae attributes his presence in Parliament to his mother, Penelope, an educator and unionist, and his partner, Zoe, an industrial lawyer and trade unionist.
  • Rae highlights the importance of family, acknowledging his brothers and children, and expresses gratitude for the sacrifices made for future generations.
  • He shares admiration for Bob Hawke, his political hero, and emphasizes the collective efforts of many in his journey to Parliament.

Policy Goals and Community Focus

  • Advocates for Indigenous rights, referencing the Uluru Statement and the need for reconciliation through voice, treaty, and truth.
  • Highlights the challenges of rapid population growth in Hawke, stressing the urgent need for improved transportation, healthcare, and educational facilities, as well as local job creation.
  • Emphasizes the importance of investing in health, education, and renewable energy to ensure a prosperous future for all Australians.

Labor Party Commitment

  • Expresses a commitment to fostering prosperity for all citizens, contrasting this with the approaches of other political parties.
  • Advocates for rebalancing the relationship between workers and employers, reforming the bargaining system, and ensuring fair wages for working people.
  • Concludes with a commitment to delivering on ambitious programs that benefit the community and promote sustainable action on climate change.

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FAQ

Sharyn Broomhead is Sam Rae's Chief of Staff.

Sam Rae represents the electorate of Hawke (VIC) in the Australian Parliament.

Sam Rae is a member of the Australian Labor Party.

Latest Updates

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See It In Action

Media Releases

TV interview with Minister Rae on ABC Afternoon Briefing

Media Release • 26 October

Health Social Services Health Sector Aged Care

AI Summary

  • Minister Rae addressed reports on automation issues in the aged care system, acknowledging that improvements are needed.
  • He outlined changes made since November to improve assessment accuracy and reduce waiting times for care.
  • Rae defended the government's approach to implementing an escalation pathway for complex cases but did not accept a broader human override recommendation.
  • He emphasised ongoing reforms are necessary to meet rising demand and improve outcomes for older Australians.
  • Despite challenges, Rae stated safety and quality in aged care have significantly improved.

COMMONWEALTH OMBUDSMAN’S INQURY INTO THE SINGLE ASSESSMENT SYSTEM

Media Release • 26 October

Aged Care

AI Summary

  • Government welcomes the Ombudsman's inquiry into the Single Assessment System.
  • Recent reforms aim to improve aged care, addressing issues highlighted since the Aged Care Act passed.
  • New escalation pathway allows for reassessment of individual circumstances from January.
  • An independent review of assessment classifications will be published in 2027.
  • Government accepts or accepts-in-principle all remaining recommendations to enhance transparency and reliability.

In Parliament

BILLS › Aged Care Legislation Amendment (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Commissioner and Other Measures) Bill 2026

Consideration of Senate Message

Australian Federal Parliament • House of Reps • 15 October

Health Social Services Aged Care

AI Summary

Mr RAE - ( - Hawke - — - Minister for Aged Care and Seniors - ) ( - 16:26 - ): I move: - That the amendments be agreed to. - Question agreed to.

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Aged Care

Australian Federal Parliament • House of Reps • 15 October

Health Aged Care

AI Summary

  • The government is committed to improving home care for older Australians, recently fully funding personal care under Support at Home with a $1 billion investment.
  • The Commonwealth Home Support Program has been extended to 2029, providing certainty for over 800,000 older Australians and their service providers.
  • Aged-care wages have been increased, and the government has invested $18 billion to enhance the workforce, including ensuring registered nurses are available 24/7 in aged-care homes.

Social Media

Posted on Facebook • 27 October 2026

Education Schools and Teaching

NEWS: We’re fully funding every public school in Victoria.
Open Post

Posted on Facebook • 19 October 2026

My thoughts are with Helen Haines, her family, team and community this evening. A thoroughly decent, thoughtful human, Helen is a passionate advocate for Indi and a deeply respected and valued colleague across the Parliament. I want to acknowledge and thank the first responders for their swift response to this devastating incident.
Open Post