Ted O'Brien
LNP
Federal
Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs
Marginal
3.23% Margin
Elected 2016
10 years
Member for Fairfax (QLD)
Federal - QLD
Ted was born in Brisbane in 1974, the youngest of nine children. He grew up working in the family flour mill business based in Toowoomba and attended Nudgee College, where he was School Captain.
Ted has attained a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Queensland (QU), a Master of Business Administration (Honours) from the University of Melbourne (UOM) and a Master of Economics (International Political Economy) from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).
Ted bega...
Portfolios
- Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs
Committees
- Nuclear Energy
- Intelligence and Security
First Speech in Parliament
31 August 2016
# Economic Growth # Health and Wellbeing # Community and Family Values
Personal Background and Values
- Ted O'Brien represents Fairfax, highlighting its unique community and natural beauty, while acknowledging the struggles many face, including cost-of-living and career prospects.
- He values a strong family, with heartfelt mentions of his wife Sophia and his late father, emphasising a commitment to serving the community over personal ambition.
Policy Goals and Vision
- O'Brien envisions a future for the Sunshine Coast that focuses on health, economic diversification, and modern infrastructure, promoting a clean, green economy.
- He advocates for a balanced approach to governance, encouraging the devolution of responsibilities to states for health and education, while fostering individual responsibility alongside rights.
Leadership and Change
- O'Brien believes that strong leadership is essential for cultural shifts in Australia, aiming to break myths about economic growth being at odds with public service investment.
- He stresses the need for a proactive approach to challenges, ensuring Australia can control its destiny by leveraging its strengths and addressing economic realities.
FAQ
Latest Updates
Media Releases
Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs - Transcript - News24, Business Now
Media Release • 15 October
Foreign Affairs and Trade Cybersecurity Security Alliances Economy
AI Summary
- Ted O'Brien highlights the changing global dynamics between the US and China, urging Australia to strengthen its economy and independence.
- He advocates for leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance economic growth and cybersecurity, particularly in collaboration with the US.
- O'Brien calls for honest dialogue with China while maintaining Australia's interests, rejecting both aggressive and overly timid approaches.
Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs - Transcript - ABC, Afternoon Briefing with Patricia Karvelas
Media Release • 15 October
Foreign Affairs and Trade Payments Climate Change Trade and Investment Free Trade Agreements Small Business
AI Summary
- O'Brien calls for the government to overturn the ATO's credit card ban, highlighting its negative impact on small businesses.
- He condemns the idea of live streaming executions in Australia and urges the government to take decisive diplomatic action.
- Discusses the need for collaboration on the EU free trade agreement, particularly regarding climate obligations.
- Criticises the Prime Minister's focus on international climate events rather than addressing domestic economic challenges.
- O'Brien asserts that Coalition policies have effectively reduced emissions and critiques the current government's failure in climate action.
In Parliament
STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS
Economy
Australian Federal Parliament • House of Reps • 15 October
Small Business Economy
AI Summary
- IMF downgraded Australia's economic growth forecast, indicating economic challenges ahead.
- Small businesses are under financial stress due to rising energy costs and interest rates, according to COSBOA.
- Record high insolvencies are projected to rise further, and consumer confidence is significantly lower than last year.
FEDERATION CHAMBER › CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Fairfax Electorate: Netball, Economy
Australian Federal Parliament • House of Reps • 13 October
Sport and Recreation Small Business Government Grants
AI Summary
- The Sunshine Coast's netball community received a $2,500 volunteer grant to enhance communication and safety during games.
- Small businesses in Fairfax, particularly one managed by Chris Atkinson, are facing severe financial pressures with rising costs in wages, fuel, energy, and insurance.
- Chris Atkinson's struggles highlight the broader challenges for small businesses, including the risk of layoffs and the impact on local economies.
Social Media
Posted on Facebook • 22 October 2026
Emergency Services
Posted on Facebook • 21 October 2026
Posted on LinkedIn • 21 October 2026
Energy Energy Industry
Posted on LinkedIn • 19 October 2026
