Adelaide born Jann trained as a registered nurse at Adelaide Children’s Hospital, before marrying Richard and having two children who are now adults. In 1987 Jann moved with her family to Currumbin on the Gold Coast and has stayed there ever since. 

 

Jann started her own communications business, consulting mainly to tourism and small business sectors, developing a diverse network of contacts and a personal rapport with the industry. Together with Richard she is Co-Director of a medical practice in Coolangatta.

 

In 2004 Jann won the State seat of Currumbin on a platform of strong community representation and consultation. Whilst in opposition Jann held several Shadow Portfolios ranging from Tourism, Manufacturing and Small Business, Fair Trading and Wine to Child Safety, Indigenous Issues and Public Works & ICT.  

 

She was appointed Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games when the Newman Government won the State Election in March 2012.

 

Her elevation to a Cabinet position in the Campbell Newman-led LNP Government has enabled Jann to draw on her two decades of experience in tourism, events, and small business for the benefit of the Queensland economy. 

 

Since her appointment to Cabinet, Jann has made it her mission to meet with industry stakeholders across Queensland to maintain an up-to-date snapshot of tourism in our great State. 

 

As an active member of the local Chambers of Commerce for 17 years and a proud Gold Coaster, Jann has a keen interest in advancing the tourism and small business sector in Queensland.

 

Travelling throughout Queensland to hear first hand the issues facing tourism operators and small businesses, Jann has a gained a genuine understanding of the challenges faced by these industries that are the backbone of Queensland’s economy.