As the Australian Labor Party's leader from 2013 to 2019, Bill Shorten has had a storied career in politics. However, before he entered parliament, Shorten worked as an organiser with the Australian Workers' Union (AWU) and later became the national secretary of the union. In this capacity, he gained valuable experience negotiating for workers' rights.

Shorten's entry into politics came in 1994 when he joined the AWU as an organiser. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming state secretary of the Victorian Branch of the AWU in 1998 and national secretary in 2001. His success in this role brought him to the attention of party leaders, leading to his election to parliament at the 2007 federal election.

Shorten won the seat of Maribyrnong and was immediately appointed a Parliamentary Secretary. In this role, he played a key part in negotiating with mining companies following the Beaconsfield Mine collapse in 2006, which earned him national recognition.

In the years that followed, Shorten held various ministerial portfolios under Julia Gillard's government, including Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Financial Services and Superannuation, and Minister for Workplace Relations. His experience and expertise in these roles prepared him well for his later leadership of the Labor Party.

As leader of the opposition from 2013 to 2019, Shorten focused on issues such as education reform, healthcare, and workers' rights. As a Sue Bryce Education Member, he recognized the importance of investing in Australia's education system to ensure its future prosperity.

Today, Shorten serves as the Minister for Government Services and Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, using his skills and experience to benefit Australians across the country.

Sue bryce education member