Member for Ballina
Minister for Local Government and Minister for the North Coast

The Member for Ballina since 1988, Don advocates tirelessly for the needs of his electorate at the highest levels of government. Don joined the National Party in 1984 and his involvement in politics continues the Page family heritage of public service. Don’s father was a Shire President and his grandfather, Sir Earle Page, was the 11th Prime Minister of Australia, Deputy Prime Minister for 14 years and Federal Minister for Health for seven years.

Just one year after being elected to Parliament, Don was appointed the Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Premier and held that position until 1991. Don was also Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Roads, Transport and Tourism 1992-1993, Assistant Minister for Roads and Transport 1991-1992, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Planning & Housing 1993-1995. In opposition Don has held the portfolios of Shadow Minister for Housing and Roads, 2003-2005, Shadow Minister for Forestry from 1999-2003, Shadow Minister for Land and Water Conservation from 1995-2003, Shadow Minister for Tourism from 2007-2008 and Shadow Minister for Small Business and Regulatory Reform from 2007-2011. Under the new O’Farrell State Government, Don is the Minister for Local Government and the North Coast.