A message from
Labor Leader Josh Willie.
Labor understands that every member brings a perspective shaped by their life experiences. What matters most is the decision to stand up and help improve those circumstances for others.
That’s why it felt important to share a personal story, about how a primary school teacher from Launceston came to lead the Tasmanian Labor Party.
This week marked a return to where it all began: Cataract Gorge pool in Launceston. Just down the road from my childhood home and near my grandparents’ house, it's where my late brother Jonathan and I spent countless days. We were inseparable - swimming, exploring and spending time together in a place that meant everything to us.
Jonathan passed away at just 13, through misadventure. I tried to save him using CPR instructions from my school diary and spent two weeks by his bedside in Melbourne. It was there where we said goodbye.
This story isn’t shared for sympathy but because it taught me how precious life is and how strength is found in facing hardship together. It’s also a reminder of why we must never wait to make a difference.
My parents, both teachers, believed in hard work and fairness - values they lived every day. Following in their footsteps, I became a teacher too and witnessed firsthand how education can transform lives.
On my first day as Leader, when I returned to Launceston, I met people who remembered being taught by my parents. Each conversation was a powerful reminder of how communities are built through shared experiences.
Today, too many Tasmanian families are doing it tough. Parents are forced to choose between work and childcare. Young people lack opportunities. Families are one paycheck away from crisis. Our health system is under strain and schools are missing out on the support they deserve.
These challenges affect real people - the kind I grew up with and the children I taught.
Tasmania is resilient. It’s a place where teachers shape futures and local businesses like Glasgow Engineering, run by my family for four generations, create good jobs and strong communities.
But resilience needs hope. Hope that things can change. Hope that a better future is possible. Jonathan’s story reminds me every day why standing together matters and why we can’t afford to wait.
Learning shapes our society. Whether you're a young person discovering the world or an adult learning something new. Whether you're a student in the classroom or a person building skills on the job. Whether you're a trained professional or a neighbour sharing their experience.
Learning is an essential part of delivering progressive change and as a teacher I learnt that you can't just tell people what they need. You have to listen, understand, and meet them where they are.
That’s the kind of leader I will be.
Together, we’ll build a Tasmania that offers real opportunity, fairness and hope for everyone.
In solidarity,
Josh Willie
Tasmanian Labor Leader
