Member for Monaro

John Barilaro was born on the Monaro and raised into a strong family, who instilled in him the values of hard work and community service.

After leaving school John worked on the factory floor of his family’s business, Ryleho Home Solutions, a manufacturer of energy efficient timber windows and doors.

John eventually became the manager of the business which has expanded to employ fifteen staff, and his role has provided him with first-hand experience of the problems facing small businesses in the region.

John lives in Jerrabomberra with his wife Deanna and their two young daughters. As a parent he is naturally concerned about the future of the local community. In 2008, John stood for election to the Queanbeyan City Council because he believed ordinary mums and dads needed a greater say on the decisions that affected them and the local area.

As a councillor John became increasingly frustrated with the failings of Sydney Labor in the region; particularly, with regard to the delays in the upgrade to the Queanbeyan hospital. John stood as a candidate for the State election because he saw The Nationals as the only party that could deliver a fair share for regional areas.

At the 2011 election John was elected as Member for Monaro, with a 7.3% swing against incumbent Steve Whan, the last Labor member west of the Great Dividing Range.

Another passion for John is sport. In 2000 he co-founded the Monaro Panthers Football Club. He served as president of the club for eight years and currently serves as vice-president. The Panthers now boast over 900 registered junior players and you can catch John on most weekends playing, coaching or cheering from the sidelines.

With two daughters learning the game John has played a leading role in promoting women’s and girl’s football. John was also a driving force behind the club’s successful bid for a place in the 2010 ACT Premier League.

John believes passionately in the future of Queanbeyan and the Monaro.

He sees health as the immediate priority for the region, in particular supporting our front-line health staff and ensuring all residents have equitable access to first class health services.