Anne Webster
NAT
Federal
Shadow Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories
Very Safe
19.0% Margin
Elected 2019
6 years
Member for Mallee (VIC)
Federal - VIC
Anne was born in 1959 in Strathfield, Sydney. She went to Strathfield Girls High School and grew up as one of three siblings.
Anne completed a dual-degree at La Trobe University, studying a Bachelor of Arts (Sociology and History) and a Bachelor of Social Work (Hons). Anne also holds a diploma of Associate in Music from AMEB, which she completed in 1989. Anne began her career as a music teacher and performer from 1990 to 2008, while concurrently working as a professional seamstress and soc...
Portfolios
- Shadow Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories
- Shadow Minister for Regional Communications
Committees
- Migration
First Speech in Parliament
1 August 2021
# Agriculture # Healthcare # Infrastructure # Water Management # Digital Connectivity # Community Resilience # Small Business # Social Policy # Renewable Energy # Education
Personal Background and Values
- Dr. Anne Webster's journey to Mallee began 40 years ago due to a twist of fate, leading to a deep connection with the region.
- Her upbringing instilled values of servanthood, compassion, and community service, influenced by her Christian faith and family.
Professional Experience and Interests
- Extensive experience in social work, particularly through Zoe Support, addressing issues faced by teen mothers, which informs her policy focus on vulnerability and social justice.
- Advocates for an integrated healthcare model in Mallee to improve access and address geographical isolation.
Policy Goals and Challenges
- Highlighted the importance of water management, advocating for bipartisan support for the Murray-Darling Basin Plan to ensure sustainable agricultural practices.
- Emphasizes the need for improved infrastructure, including roads and rail, to enhance productivity and connectivity in the region.
- Committed to fostering community resilience through digital agriculture and supporting small businesses facing workforce challenges.
FAQ
Latest Updates
Media Releases
Labor raiding bone-dry farmers and their communities - Media Release
Media Release • 6 June
Agriculture Superannuation Planning Property Tax Property Regional Development
AI Summary
- Dr Anne Webster condemns Labor's taxation policies affecting farmers, including taxes on unrealised capital gains.
- Webster claims Labor is indifferent to the financial struggles of farmers in drought conditions.
- She warns that these policies could force farmers to sell their land, leading to further industrialisation of rural areas.
- Concerns are raised about the potential for increased taxation on income from energy projects that farmers might engage with.
- Webster calls for protective measures against what she describes as 'greedy' Labor governments.
Interview with Chris Kenny, Sky News 'The Kenny Report' - Transcript - Thursday 5 June 2025
Media Release • 5 June
Agriculture Livestock Regional Development
AI Summary
- Drought in regional Victoria and South Australia has reached critical levels, impacting livestock farmers severely.
- Cost of feed has skyrocketed, with farmers facing expenses of $20,000 a week for hay and $47,000 a month for grain.
- Webster praises the Rapid Relief Team for delivering hay to affected farmers, showcasing community support in tough times.
- Calls for government action include interest-free loans for farmers to alleviate financial burdens.
- South Australian government has waived biosecurity fees for transporting hay, but similar action is needed from Victoria.
In Parliament
MATTERS OF PUBLIC IMPORTANCE
Budget
Australian Federal Parliament • House of Reps • 26 March
Economy
AI Summary
- Debate on the recent federal budget and its key components.
- Focus on funding for health, education, and infrastructure.
- Criticism from opposition regarding budget deficits and spending priorities.
BILLS › Telecommunications Amendment (Enhancing Consumer Safeguards) Bill 2025
Second Reading
Australian Federal Parliament • House of Reps • 26 March
Consumer Affairs Telecommunications Consumer Rights
AI Summary
- The bill seeks to enhance consumer safeguards in telecommunications.
- Key focus areas include service quality and transparency for consumers.
- The second reading discusses potential impacts on both consumers and service providers.
Social Media
Posted on Facebook • 9 June 2025
Posted on Facebook • 8 June 2025
Agriculture
