Andrew Bartlett

Andrew Bartlett studied Social Work because he was interested in learning more about how to work with people to generate positive change at a family, community, national and global levels.

He went straight from school to university, but didn't move into Social Work until three years later. And that was only after having tried other courses and a variety of different occupations: working in community radio, at Brisbane's 4ZZZ; driving taxis; and dabbling in the music industry by performing in rock bands, which culminated in worldwide music sales in at least double figures. Andrew began Social Work in 1984, graduating in 1987 from The University of Queensland.

He said of the Social Work degree: "(it) provided some assistance in learning how to work with people, although nothing beats practical experience. It still provides a useful framework for working with people, communities and systems. The course had a high percentage of women, (especially as opposed to computing, one of the courses I had tried for awhile, or my high school education which was at an all-boy's school). This was good preparation for working in the Democrats."

"My focus in the course was on community development work. Most of what I have done in the last decade has included aspects of this." His first job was as a locum Social Worker with the Department of Social Security at Ipswich. He recalls: "The people I saw there made me realise how far people can be cut out of society."

Andrew's commitment to Queensland and Australia as Senator for Queensland (Australian Democrats) took place from 1997 until 30 June 2008. Prior to that Andrew was involved as a researcher and community liaison officer for a number of other Democrats Senators, and as an organiser within the Australian Democrats. Welfare is one of his seven portfolios as a Senator, and when considering legislation he finds it very helpful having had that theoretical and hands on experience.

He said: "I know that these laws may actually have substantial impacts on people's lives. I understand that what is in the legislation is not necessarily reflected by what happens on the ground. I try and stay in touch with people who are working directly with the most marginalised groups in our society and keep getting that feedback about what is really happening out there".

What drives and motivates Andrew to keep going is being able to influence and assist positive social change, and prevent or ameliorate negative change. Last year, one of the most significant amendments he achieved to legislation, specifically the Community Development Employment Program (CDEP), was to ensure 4000 of Australia's single parents didn't have their payments cut. He said: "Days like that are fantastic"

Andrew hopes in the future the community will have greater influence and involvement in the political process and people will be empowered to develop their own solutions.

Andrew is currently standing as a candidate to contest the seat of Brisbane in the upcoming 2010 Federal election.