Jim Chalmers is an Australian Labor politician who has served as Treasurer of Australia since May 2022 under Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Born in Brisbane in 1978, Chalmers holds a PhD in political science from the Australian National University and worked as an academic and policy advisor before entering politics. He began his political career as a senior advisor to Treasurer Wayne Swan during the global financial crisis and later served as chief of staff to Swan and deputy chief of staff to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. Chalmers was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2013, representing the Queensland seat of Rankin.
Throughout his parliamentary career, Chalmers has held several significant shadow portfolio positions, including Shadow Minister for Finance and Shadow Treasurer from 2019 to 2022. As Treasurer, he has focused on addressing cost-of-living pressures, implementing Labor's election commitments including childcare reforms and renewable energy investments, and managing Australia's economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. His key policy priorities include reducing inflation, improving productivity growth, and transitioning Australia toward a clean energy economy while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Chalmers is recognized for his expertise in economic policy and has authored several books on political and economic topics, including works on populism and progressive politics. He has positioned himself as a pragmatic economic manager, emphasizing the need for targeted government intervention while maintaining market-oriented principles. His approach to the Treasury role has involved regular engagement with business leaders, unions, and international counterparts, while advocating for policies that balance economic growth with social equity and environmental sustainability.