Clare's journey in public service
Clare has represented the electorate of Hotham in Melbourne's south east since she was elected to Federal Parliament in 2013. This area, home to over 130,000 people, is known for its diverse community, spanning from Oakleigh in the north to Springvale in the south. Clare has spent most of her life studying, living, and working here.
Early career and education
While studying law at Monash University, Clare was elected to the City of Greater Dandenong Council. Soon after, she became the youngest female mayor in Australia. Before entering Federal Parliament, she advised the Office of the Commonwealth Treasurer and worked as a consultant across various industries, including mining, manufacturing, banking, and retail.
Parliamentary roles
Clare has held several key positions:
- Shadow Minister for Justice (2016–2019)
- Shadow Minister for Financial Services (2018–2019)
- Shadow Minister for Innovation, Technology, and the Future of Work (2019–2021)
- Shadow Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Services (2021–2022)
In 2022, Clare was appointed as the Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Cyber Security.
Education
Clare holds a Bachelor of Arts (History) and a Bachelor of Laws from Monash University. She also earned a Master of Public Policy from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.