Local Members

The Hon. John Cobb MP

Shadow Minister for Regional Development and Water Security
Federal Member for Calare

Biography

John Cobb was no stranger to politics when he entered Federal Parliament in 2001.  Born and raised in western NSW and a former president of the NSW Farmers’ Association, John made the move into federal politics to change city-centric politics and achieve a fair go for country people.

John served as the Member for Parkes from 2001 until the 2007 election.  Following a redistribution of electoral boundaries in 2006, he made the decision to stand for the seat of Calare, which took in most of the old seat of Parkes and now includes the local government areas of Bourke, Brewarrina, Orange, Cowra, Blayney and Cabonne.

John has held a range of Ministerial portfolios, first being appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Services following the 2004 election.  He subsequently served as Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs (2005), Minister for Community Services (2006-7) and Assistant Minister for the Environment and Water Resources (2007).

After the 2007 election, John accepted a posting in Shadow Cabinet as Minister for Regional Development and Water Security, two issues very close to his heart.  As well as his portfolio responsibilities, he continues to work hard to attract and keep doctors and medical specialists in the bush, ensuring quality telecommunications for the country, returning property rights to landholders and protecting the interests of small business.  John believes it is these basic values that will drive regional growth and ensure the social and economic fabric of our rural communities thrives.

John Cobb’s achievements for his electorate include:

• $10 million capital funding for Broken Hill and Forbes Aged Care funding
• Community Technology Centres throughout the region, providing access to services not previously available
• Support for drought stricken farmers by achieving the relaxation of drought assistance criteria and promoting the plight of farmers in Parliament House and hosting a tour by the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister on three separate occasions
• Active lobbying and support for the development and expansion of medical centres in areas such as Narromine and Cobar
• Millions of dollars for youth services throughout the region, including Anzac Park at Orange