About Michael

Michael Ferguson has spent most of his adult life serving others.

Born, educated and raising a family with Julie in Northern Tasmania, Michael’s commitment to public life began long before he entered politics. As a teacher, youth worker, community volunteer and small business owner, he developed a fundamental belief that every person has great worth and that strong communities are built when people step up to serve.

After completing degrees in Education and Applied Science at the University of Tasmania, Michael taught mathematics, science and information technology in Tasmanian state schools. His community involvement and charitable work saw him recognised as Tasmanian Young Australian of the Year in 2002. That same year he was elected to Meander Valley Council.

Michael was elected Federal Member for Bass in 2004 and later to the Tasmanian Parliament in 2010, where he has been re-elected at every election since. Over nearly a quarter of a century in public life, he has served at local, state and federal levels, always with a focus on improving opportunities and quality of life for Tasmanian families.

His ministerial responsibilities have included Health, Infrastructure, Transport, Finance, Local Government, Small Business, Housing, State Growth, Science and Technology, Police, Fire and Emergency Management, and Treasurer. He served as a senior Cabinet Minister for more than ten years, including as Deputy Premier and Treasurer of Tasmania.

Among the reforms and projects he is most proud of are leading Tasmania’s historic One Health System reforms, reducing surgery waiting lists to the lowest level on record, delivering the new Royal Hobart Hospital, the new Women’s and Children’s Precinct at the Launceston General Hospital, establishing Tasmania’s statewide aeromedical helicopter service, delivering the new Bridgewater Bridge, and introducing tough laws to combat criminal outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Michael believes public service is a privilege, not an entitlement. He believes Australia and Tasmania depend on people being willing to step up, accept responsibility and serve their communities through both good times and difficult ones.

Michael’s Christian faith has shaped a lifelong commitment to integrity, personal responsibility, compassion and service. He and Julie have three adult children.

He remains deeply grateful for the trust placed in him by the people of Bass and continues to work towards his vision of a Tasmania where every person can flourish and enjoy the best possible quality of life.