Bill Shorten is an Australian Labor politician who has served as the Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and Government Services since May 2022 in the Albanese government and recently resigned from this role. Born in Melbourne in 1967, Shorten studied arts and law at Monash University before beginning his career as a lawyer and trade union official. He rose to prominence in the Australian Workers' Union (AWU), serving as Victorian Secretary and later National Secretary, where he became known for his negotiating skills and advocacy for workers' rights. Shorten was first elected to the House of Representatives for the Victorian seat of Maribyrnong in 2007.
Shorten's political career accelerated rapidly following his election to parliament. He served in various ministerial roles under the Rudd and Gillard governments, including Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Financial Services and Superannuation, and Minister for Education. Following Labor's defeat in 2013, he successfully contested the party leadership and served as Leader of the Opposition from 2013 to 2019. During this period, he led Labor through two federal elections, winning the popular vote in 2016 but losing the majority, and suffering an unexpected defeat in 2019 despite being favored in polling. His leadership focused on policies including negative gearing reform, climate action, and protecting penalty rates for workers.
As NDIS Minister, Shorten has prioritized reforming and improving the National Disability Insurance Scheme, addressing concerns about accessibility, funding sustainability, and service delivery that emerged during the scheme's rollout under previous governments. He has emphasized the need to return the NDIS to its original vision while ensuring its long-term viability. Throughout his career, Shorten has been recognized for his communication skills and ability to connect with diverse audiences, though he has also faced criticism over his union background and role in leadership changes during Labor's previous time in government. His current ministerial role represents a return to his advocacy roots, focusing on supporting some of Australia's most vulnerable citizens.