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?

My journey into Industrial Relations began with a moment of quiet conviction. As a junior manager in one of my early roles, I witnessed a situation where an employee wasn’t being given a fair go. Rather than staying silent, I chose to speak up advocating for a balanced resolution. The matter was resolved amicably, and both the employee and manager expressed their gratitude for my intervention. That experience lit a spark. The CEO, recognising my instinct for fairness and diplomacy, encouraged me to explore formal training and immerse myself in the ER/IR community. That pivotal moment transformed a sense of justice into a purposeful career path.

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?

Being elected President of the Industrial Relations Society of Queensland (IRSQ) stands out as the most significant milestone in my industrial relations journey. This role has not only allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the profession but also deepened my understanding of the evolving IR landscape through collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Leading a committee of highly skilled and passionate professionals has been both a privilege and a learning curve. It has challenged me to grow as a leader balancing diverse perspectives, fostering inclusive dialogue, and guiding strategic initiatives. Personally, it continues to shape my leadership style, resilience, and commitment to advancing fair and balanced industrial relations in Queensland and beyond.

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?

One of the most prominent emerging issues in Australian industrial relations is the rise of insecure and gig economy work. With platforms like Uber and Doordash reshaping employment norms, many workers face limited rights, low job security, and lack of access to traditional benefits. This shift challenges the foundations of Australia’s IR system, which was built around stable, long-term employment. In the future, this trend could widen inequality and strain social safety nets. To address it, Australia must modernise its industrial laws ensuring gig workers receive fair pay, protections, and representation while balancing innovation and flexibility in the evolving labour market. The second challenge is the lack graduates entering the field of IR and the diminishing learning opportunities being offered by educational institutions.

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?

If I could offer one piece of advice to my younger self stepping into the world of Industrial Relations, it would be this: pause, reflect, and then act. Don’t rush to respond listen deeply, with the intent to understand, not just to reply. True wisdom in this field comes not from textbooks alone, but from lived experience through trial, error, and the humility to learn from both. As my mother wisely says, “You can only clap with two hands.” Collaboration, empathy, and balance are the heartbeat of effective IR. I would also remind myself that patience is a strength, not a weakness, and that every voice at the table no matter how quiet deserves to be heard. For those just beginning, embrace curiosity, seek mentorship, and never underestimate the power of respectful dialogue. This field is as much about people as it is about policy.

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 endeavors?

There are several individuals who have profoundly influenced my perspective on Industrial Relations, but three stand out for their enduring impact. First, Errol Hodder, former General Secretary of the Australian Workers’ Union and Commissioner of the Australian Industrial Relations Commission, is a figure I deeply admire. His journey from shearer to union leader and commissioner reflects a life dedicated to fairness, advocacy, and reform. Hodder’s role in revitalising the AWU’s influence and his principled leadership during pivotal moments in Queensland’s labour history continue to inspire my commitment to integrity and balance in IR.

From the political sphere, Paul Keating stands out not only for his economic reforms but for his nuanced understanding of the social contract between labour and capital. His ability to articulate complex industrial and economic issues with clarity and conviction has shaped how I approach policy and negotiation with both pragmatism and vision.

Finally, Chief Justice Susan Kiefel, the first female Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia, exemplifies intellectual rigour and quiet strength. Her legal reasoning and commitment to justice remind me of the importance of impartiality, deep analysis, and respect for the rule of law principles that are foundational in IR practice. Together, these individuals have shaped my approach to leadership, advocacy, and decision-making grounding it in fairness, courage, and thoughtful deliberation.

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

Random fun fact? I got lost on a safari in Kenya; yes, properly lost. One moment I was admiring a herd of elephants, the next I was wondering if I had accidentally become part of the wildlife. Thankfully, I was found sunburnt, slightly embarrassed. And if that wasn’t enough, I also once fell off a ridge while bushwalking in the Queensland hinterland (don’t worry, just a bruised ego and a few scratches). Let’s just say my sense of direction is more philosophical than practical. But whether in the wild or the workplace, I have learned that resilience, humour, and a good story go a long way.