Anna Bligh is a widely recognised and acknowledged Australian leader and the proud mother of two sons. Until 2012, when she moved to NSW, Anna had lived in Queensland all her life. 

From her earliest school days and then at Queensland University, Anna Bligh displayed a burning desire to make a difference.  With passion, commitment and leadership, Anna strived to make Australia a better place.  

In 2007 Anna became a household name when she became the first female Premier of Queensland, but her legacy as a State leader will be the exceptional leadership she provided to the State, and the Nation, in the face of the tragedy of the flood and storm disasters of 2011.   Anna Bligh, the Premier of QLD, certainly made a difference. Her presence and compassion for the suffering of fellow Queenslanders was a reassuring sign that help was on its way. The reconstruction of the homes, businesses and infrastructure was the Premier’s priority and Anna led the restoration charge, never shirking accountability.

Anna Bligh however was not a late bloomer. Long before 2011 she had made a difference. Anna entered politics in 1995. She held several major portfolios in the Queensland Government in which her energy, drive and enthusiasm resulted in major leaps forward in terms of policy. But probably more importantly, she ensured policy was implemented for the benefit of all. For example, in the Education portfolio she drove massive reforms in early childhood learning. As Treasurer and Premier, Anna Bligh oversaw Australia’s largest infra structure building program including new export chain capacity, major new roads and public transport infrastructure and a $9bn ‘Water grid’ connecting water storages and constructing new water sources.

In other portfolios Anna made huge changes for the better in the areas of social reform, environment and in governance and accountability.

For her work in the Education sector Anna has been granted an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Queensland.  For her leadership in crisis, Anna has been awarded Australia’s National Emergency Medal.

Since retiring from politics, Anna has travelled, has taken up several Board positions and has been highly sought after on the speaking circuit both in Australia and internationally. She recently completed a role as CEO of YWCA (NSW) and has taken the position of CEO of the Australian Banker’s Association. Anna is the author of the widely acclaimed book “Through the Wall”.

Anna was awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia in the 2017 Australia Honours list.

Anna Bligh is a high achiever. She is a leader who has led in the toughest of times. She is a gifted speaker and a passionate supporter of the Arts. Anna is admired by many and respected by all people across the political divide. She is a role model for women. Anna has mastered multi tasking and she continues to make a difference.