Former Premier of Queensland | Trailblazing Political Leader | International Ambassador, Smart Energy Council
Annastacia Palaszczuk is one of Australia’s most prominent political leaders, serving as the Premier of Queensland for eight years (2015–2023) and becoming the longest-serving female leader in Australian history. Her political career spanned 17 years in the Queensland Parliament, where she represented the electorate of Inala from 2006 until her resignation in December 2023.
Before becoming Premier, Ms Palaszczuk was Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Queensland Parliamentary Labor Party (2012–2015). She previously held key ministerial portfolios including Minister for Disability Services and Multicultural Affairs (2009–2011) and Minister for Transport (2011–2012). Earlier in her career, she served as Chair of the Parliamentary Ethics Committee.
Her academic achievements include a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws from the University of Queensland, a Master of Arts (Hons) from the University of London, and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from the Australian National University. She was also awarded a British Council Chevening Scholarship, enabling study at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies and the London School of Economics.
In May 2024, Ms Palaszczuk was appointed International Ambassador for the Smart Energy Council, where she champions the transition to renewable energy and the global clean energy economy.
Born in Brisbane in 1969, she began her career working as a tutor, adviser to state and federal MPs, and part-time sales assistant before entering Parliament. Over nearly two decades in public life, she became known for her resilience, leadership, and historic achievements in Australian politics.
