As Queensland Treasurer, David is responsible for fostering a strong and stable taxation and regulatory system, creating an economic environment for growth, and providing an open door for investment. As Energy Minister, he is tasked with delivering an energy system that is affordable, reliable and sustainable, while facilitating private sector investment in new energy infrastructure balanced with public ownership of existing assets.

Before entering politics in 2016 as the Member for Toowoomba South, David had two decades of professional experience in law and banking. He held senior leadership positions at Queensland-based People First Bank (previously Heritage Bank), including as General Counsel. This experience drives him, as Queensland’s first ever Home Ownership Minister, to create opportunities for those wanting to own their own home to achieve their dream. Prior to this, he practised at a leading law firm in Brisbane and a Fortune 500 company in London.

Passionate about the power of economic advancement to improve social outcomes, David was a founding director of the Toowoomba-based social enterprise Vanguard Laundry. David has also served as a director on the Board of Opera Queensland and the Empire Theatres Foundation, and has chaired the Southern Downs Regional Council Audit and Risk Committee. He holds a Bachelor of Economics and a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) from the University of Queensland and an Associate in Music (Piano) from the AMEB. He is married to opera singer Mel, who has performed internationally. Together they have three children. He loves cricket and playing the piano.