RM

    Richard Marles

    Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Defence

    LaborCorio, VICIncumbent

    Biography

    Background and political history

    A Geelong local, Richard Marles entered parliament in 2007 after a career in union law and diplomacy. As Deputy PM he oversees Australia's AUKUS nuclear-sub program, Pacific step-up and Defence Strategic Review implementation.

    Policy Positions

    Key issues and stances

    Defence

    Forward-leaning

    AUKUS, guided weapons manufacturing, Pacific partnerships.


    Economy

    Pro-growth

    Advanced-manufacturing & defence-industry jobs hub in Geelong.


    Climate

    Supports 43 % target

    Electorate decarbonisation via offshore wind in Corio Bay.


    Infrastructure

    Regional focus

    Backing faster rail Melbourne-Geelong.


    Skills

    TAFE centric

    Fee-free TAFE & naval-nuclear workforce pipeline.

    Voting History

    Recent votes on key legislation

    Climate Change Bill 2022

    2022-08-04YES

    43 % emissions target

    AUKUS Nuclear-Powered Submarine Bills 2023

    2023-12-07YES

    Framework for AUKUS submarine acquisition

    NACC Bill 2022

    2022-11-30YES

    Federal integrity commission

    Defence Amendment (Force Posture) Bill 2024

    2024-05-22YES

    Enables rotational US forces in NT

    Housing Australia Future Fund Bill 2023

    2023-06-15YES

    Social-housing fund

    Election History

    Past election results

    YearElectorateResultVote %
    2022CorioWon62.8%
    2019CorioWon63.3%
    2016CorioWon60.4%

    Contact Information

    Get in touch with Richard Marles

    Office Address

    Suite 1, 92-100 Brougham St, Geelong VIC 3220