Kate Ellis

Kate Ellis

Kate Ellis grew up in the in the Murray River town of Mannum in South Australia.

Her family owned the local bakery and her mother worked as a teacher at the local primary school.

Kate moved with her family to Adelaide where she attended high school in the inner south-western suburbs and later studied international relations and politics at Flinders University.

Kate's political interest was sparked when higher education funding was slashed and massive increases to HECS fees were introduced.

She became involved with student campaigns to highlight these and other issues, was editor of the student newspaper and later President of the Students' Association.

Kate remains passionate about the need for quality education to be accessible to all Australians regardless of their economic status.

Concerned by the deterioration of the River Murray, Kate is also vocal advocate for the 'Save the Murray Campaign'.

Determined to pursue a career in public policy, Kate worked for two South Australian state ministers before making her mark at a federal level.

On October 9 2004, Kate made history as the youngest woman ever elected to the Australian House of Representatives, after winning the seat of Adelaide.

Following the Australian Labor Party election victory in November 2007 Kate was elevated to the Rudd Government ministry as the Minister for Sport and Youth.

Kate understands the power of sport to define our national identity, help build stronger communities and address our growing obesity problem.

She's also determined to give young people a stronger voice in government by listening and responding to their needs through the new Australian Youth Forum.

A true believer in building strong links with the community and being as accessible as possible to her constituents, Kate works tirelessly for her electorate, supporting groups for grants and funding, recognising outstanding achievers, highlighting local issues and fighting for the residents.

Kate continues to be involved with a number of community, cultural and sporting groups within the local Adelaide community.

In her elusive spare time, she loves to cook, play for her local social netball team and attempts to keep her garden alive.