Joanne Ryan
ALP Federal

Chief Government Whip in the House of Representatives

Very Safe

13.21% Margin

Elected 2013

13 years

Member for Lalor (VIC)

Federal - VIC

Joanne was born in 1961 in the Melbourne suburb of Werribee. Her father was a dairy, sheep and grain farmer and Joanne was raised in the Catholic faith. She attended Mary MacKillop Girls College.

Joanne graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Education. She had an extensive career as a teacher spanning from the 1980s to her election in 2013, beginning with working at Darwin High School in the Northern Territory. Joanne then worked as a teacher, assistant principal an...

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Committees

  • Privileges and Members' Interests
  • Selection
  • Parliamentary Standards
  • Education
  • Communications, the Arts and Sport
  • National Anti-Corruption Commission

Key Staff

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See It In Action

First Speech in Parliament

18 November 2013

# Education # Community Engagement # Social Justice

Personal Background and Values

  • Deeply influenced by her family and community, particularly her roots in Werribee.
  • Strong advocacy for service, struggle, and inclusivity, shaped by her upbringing and teaching career.
  • Emphasises the importance of connection to history and heritage, especially Indigenous voices.

Work Experience and Political Journey

  • Extensive career in education, highlighting transformative impacts of funding and reforms.
  • Inspired by predecessors like Julia Gillard and Lynne Kosky; committed to continuing their legacy in education.
  • Recognises the power of community activism, citing the campaign against CSR as a pivotal experience.

Policy Goals and Future Agenda

  • Advocates for infrastructure, health, disability care, and economic growth as critical areas of focus.
  • Stresses the necessity of action on climate change and commitment to a just society.
  • Prioritises education as the key to opportunity and equality, pledging to fight for equitable access for all students.

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FAQ

Andrew Moore is Joanne Ryan's Chief of Staff.

Joanne Ryan represents the electorate of Lalor (VIC) in the Australian Parliament.

Joanne Ryan is a member of the Australian Labor Party.

Latest Updates

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See It In Action

In Parliament

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Road Transport Industry

Australian Federal Parliament • House of Reps • 1 April

AI Summary

  • Concerns raised about safety standards in the road transport sector.
  • Sustainability initiatives discussed to reduce environmental impact.
  • Impact of government regulations on industry operations highlighted.

BILLS › Treasury Laws Amendment (Fuel Excise Relief) Bill 2026

Second Reading

Australian Federal Parliament • House of Reps • 31 March

Petroleum Pricing

AI Summary

  • The bill proposes adjustments to fuel excise rates.
  • It aims to provide financial relief to consumers and businesses.
  • Discussion includes the potential economic impact of the changes.

Social Media

Posted on Facebook • 5 April 2026

Happy Easter to everyone celebrating today in our community and across the nation.
Open Post

Posted on Facebook • 3 April 2026

If you’re working this Easter weekend, thank you. You deserve your penalty rates.
Open Post

Posted on X • 26 February 2026

Health

Werribee's very own Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic opened earlier this year. It was great to welcome Prime Minister @albomp this morning to see this investment firsthand. The Albanese Labor Government will always back women's health with real action.
Open Post

Posted on X • 26 February 2026

Social Services

Other income support payments, including JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY and Commonwealth Rent Assistance, will also increase. Read more: https://t.co/zqGTUu7WSO
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