Local Members
Paul Neville MP
Deputy National Party Whip
Federal Member for Hinkler
Biography
Paul Neville was born in Warwick, Queensland, and came to politics with a background in regional development and tourism. He was elected as the Member for Hinkler in 1993.
Paul holds a strong conservative stance on social and moral issues, and stands against the erosion of Australia’s sovereignty. He has a reputation as an effective and approachable representative of the people of Hinkler.
Paul is passionate about bringing back excitement to regional Australia through major infrastructure construction projects and a robust economy. He works tirelessly to deliver a better deal for the major industries of his region, including agriculture, fishing, manufacturing, small business and tourism.
Under the former Coalition Government, Paul chaired the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport and Regional Services, and the Government Policy Committee on Communications, Information Technology and the Arts. He is an active supporter of the Inland Rail projects and better access and facilities at Australian ports.
Paul’s expertise and experience led to him being chosen to chair the current Coalition Education and Industry Policy Committee. He has also sat on the Joint Standing National Capital and External Territories committee, and is a member of the Belgium, Slovenia and Ireland Parliamentary Friendship Groups.
Throughout his term, Paul has acted as patron to many community organisations and is a supporter of Rotary. He is married to Margaret with five adult children.
Paul Neville’s achievements for his electorate include:
- A new Medicare-eligible MRI machine for Bundaberg
- Extra social support programs for Hervey Bay, including a Post-Separation Parenting Service and Children’s Contact Service and a Family Relationship Centre in Bundaberg
- More funding for cultural projects throughout the electorate, including $4 million for the Hinkler Hall of Aviation in Bundaberg
- Dramatic improvements in Hinkler’s bulk-billing rate – going form an average of 43.6% in 2002, to more than 70% in early 2007
- An ABC Radio studio and journalist in Hervey Bay
- Seed funding of employment-generating enterprises in the fields of aviation, horticulture, local product processing and community development
