Can you share with us the story of how you initially became involved in the field of industrial relations? What experiences or events led you to pursue a career in this area?

I’ve always felt strongly about fairness, which led to some epic tantrums as a child as well as my dream to become the first female prime minister of Australia. I was told by my primary school deputy principal that most politicians are lawyers and so began my secondary dream to be a lawyer. I have since abandoned my dream of being the first female prime minister of Australia for obvious reasons but I did become a lawyer!

While studying at university, I worked part time at a supermarket doing payroll and administration, and it was there that I first discovered a love of helping other workers to learn more about their rights and entitlements. I was then naturally drawn to employment law and industrial relations late in my studies. After graduating, I started in a casual call centre role assisting union members with their employment issues. I adored it and quickly moved into an Industrial Officer role where I stayed for many years because industrial relations is very fulfilling, despite its challenges.

Reflecting on your career journey thus far, could you highlight what you consider to be your most significant achievement within the realm of industrial relations? How did this accomplishment impact your professional trajectory or contribute to your personal growth?

There isn’t one achievement that stands out to me as the most significant. Each step in my career has played a key part in my professional and personal growth, but a couple of highlights include becoming admitted as a lawyer and working with a great team to do good things for the IR community in WA as President of IRSWA.

The most satisfying career moments have come from helping others. When I’ve been able to help someone resolve their matter, it has solidified my passion for industrial relations and reminded me that the difficult times are worth it.

In your opinion, what do you perceive as the most prominent emerging issue within the field of industrial relations today? How do you foresee this issue shaping the landscape of IR in the future, and what steps do you believe are necessary to address it effectively?

I think there is a risk that people can become too entrenched in a position or divided along ideological lines that they may lose the ability to discuss matters with people they disagree with (an issue that is impacting society more broadly). If this continues, then we will see more protracted disputes, litigation, and less goodwill from all parties. A way to address it effectively is to continue encouraging people working in industrial relations to build connections with others across the full spectrum of industrial relations and to engage in balanced discussions. The work of industrial relations societies is so important for this reason. You can meet an adversary in an informal environment and get to know more about them as a human being. I believe this leads to more respectful interactions and better advocacy.

If you could offer a piece of advice to your younger self when embarking on your first job in industrial relations, what would it be? Based on your experiences and insights gained over the years, what guidance would you provide to someone just starting out in this field?

Keep going, you’re on the right path! Self-doubt is ok in small doses and can help you be a better practitioner but believe in yourself more - you have valuable skills to offer the world.

I would provide similar guidance to someone just starting out in the field and would also emphasise the importance of relationships. The field of industrial relations is relatively small and your reputation matters. Prioritise your professional integrity and keep the bigger picture in mind.

Is there a particular individual within the realm of industrial relations or a related field whom you admire most? What qualities or accomplishments of this person inspire you, and in what ways have they influenced your approach to your own professional endeavours?

I am lucky enough to have several people that I admire and look up to. When I started as an Industrial Officer, I was surrounded by smart and strategic women. They each approached matters in different ways, but shared common values of hard work, respect and professionalism. This, along with strong collegiality, are values I continue to be guided by today.

As we aim to get to know you better beyond your professional achievements, could you share a random fun fact about yourself? Whether it is a unique hobby, an interesting travel experience, or an unexpected talent, we would love to hear something that offers insight into the person behind the professional persona.

When I was around 17 years old, I visited my dad in Seattle, Washington for 3 months (my dad had moved there permanently). I begged him to teach me how to drive while I was there. My dad didn’t want the right hand side of the road to become my default for driving and he instead bought me some flying lessons. So, I learnt to fly a plane before I could drive a car!