Anna Burke, Australian businesswoman and politician, 28th Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives

Anna Elizabeth Burke, born on 1 January 1966, is a prominent Australian figure who has made substantial contributions across both federal parliamentary politics and public administration. Her distinguished career spans nearly two decades in the Australian House of Representatives, where she served with dedication before transitioning to a significant role as a Member of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

Parliamentary Career: Representing the Division of Chisholm

Ms. Burke's journey in the Australian Parliament commenced in October 1998 when she was first elected as the federal representative for the Division of Chisholm. Located in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Chisholm is a diverse and dynamic electorate. As a committed member of the Australian Labor Party, Anna Burke diligently served the constituents of Chisholm for an impressive 18 years, successfully retaining her seat through multiple federal elections until her retirement from Parliament in May 2016. During her extensive tenure as a Member of Parliament, she actively participated in legislative debates, contributed to various parliamentary committees, and consistently advocated for her community's interests on the national stage.

Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives

One of the most significant chapters of Anna Burke's political career was her tenure as the Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives. From October 2012 to November 2013, she held this pivotal and constitutionally vital role. As Speaker, her primary responsibilities included presiding over the proceedings of the House, ensuring adherence to the Standing Orders, maintaining order and decorum during debates, and impartially applying parliamentary rules. Her appointment was particularly notable as she became only the second woman in Australian history to hold the Speakership, following Joan Child, and she served during a period of minority government, requiring a particularly skillful and impartial approach to managing parliamentary business. Her firm yet fair handling of the chamber earned her respect from across the political spectrum.

Current Role: Member of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal

Since concluding her extensive parliamentary service, Anna Burke has continued to contribute to Australia's public life as a Member of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). The AAT is an independent statutory body established to review a wide range of administrative decisions made by Australian government ministers, departments, and agencies. In this quasi-judicial capacity, Ms. Burke leverages her deep understanding of governance, public policy, and legal principles to conduct impartial merits reviews, ensuring that government decisions are fair, lawful, and reasonable. Her role within the AAT underscores her ongoing commitment to accountability and the integrity of the Australian federal system.

Frequently Asked Questions about Anna Elizabeth Burke

What is Anna Burke's current role?
Anna Burke is currently a Member of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), an independent body that reviews government administrative decisions.
When was Anna Burke a Member of the Australian House of Representatives?
She served as a Member of the Australian House of Representatives from October 1998 to May 2016.
Which electorate did Anna Burke represent?
Anna Burke represented the Division of Chisholm, located in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria.
What is the role of the Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives?
The Speaker presides over the proceedings of the House of Representatives, maintaining order, enforcing parliamentary rules (Standing Orders), and ensuring debates are conducted fairly and impartially.
What does the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) do?
The AAT provides independent merits review of administrative decisions made by Australian government ministers, departments, and agencies, ensuring these decisions are fair, lawful, and reasonable.