Michael Aird MLC

Minister for Economic Development

“I am passionate about securing a positive long-term future for Tasmania.”

“As Minister for Economic Development, I believe that a strong economic and financial foundation is essential to providing jobs to Tasmanians and services to the community as a whole.”

Michael has managed a community organisation providing support for people with disabilities, managed a small retail business, established and run his own small business and been closely involved with many community organisations including spending a number of years as President of the New Norfolk Football Club.

First elected to the Tasmanian Parliament in 1979 and in the 28 years since then, Michael has served as Minister for Environment and Planning, Minister for Employment, Industrial Relations and Training, Minister for Education and Training and Leader of the Government in the Legislative Council. Michael currently holds the positions of Treasurer and Minister for Racing. 

Michael’s commitment to a positive and vibrant long-term future for Tasmania is evident in his Chairmanship of Tasmania Together Community Leaders Group which developed the original Tasmania Together Plan. As Treasurer, Michael initiated the establishment of the Tasmanian Demographic Change Advisory Council and has championed the reform of Tasmania’s Water and Sewerage sector.

Michelle O’Byrne MP

Minister for Tourism and the Arts
Minister for Sport and Recreation

“I have a vision for a Tasmania that embraces everybody, irrespective of their circumstances, background or culture.”

“As Minister for Tourism and the Arts, I am committed to encouraging a vibrant, innovative and diverse arts sector and understands its contribution to the richness and vibrancy of our culture, the health of our communities and the economic prosperity of Tasmania.”

As Minister for Sport and Recreation, I recognise that the government has a role in creating healthier and stronger communities by providing a comprehensive sporting and recreational system, that offers social participation opportunities right through to high performance sport.”

Michelle began her working life as an organiser for the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union. She managed a job skills program for long-term unemployed people for three years and, in 1996, she began working as an electorate officer to Senator Kerry O’Brien.

In 1998, Michelle was elected Federal Member for Bass, serving until 2004. Michelle served as Federal Labor’s Parliamentary Secretary for Communications and was also the national co convenor of EMILY’s List, supporting progressive Labor women seeking election to government. Michelle was elected as the State Labor Member for Bass in 2006.

Michelle also holds the portfolio of Environment, Parks and Heritage and has previously served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier, Minister for Community Development, Minister assisting the Premier on Local Government.