About | Daniela De Martino

Meet Daniela

Your Member for Monbulk

I am honoured to serve as the State Member for Monbulk, a diverse and beautiful electorate that encompasses almost all of the Dandenong Ranges and more than 35 towns, each with its own unique history and character. From Ferntree Gully through to Gembrook, I am dedicated to representing and advocating for the people who call our hills home. As a lifelong resident of Melbourne’s outer east, I have always felt deeply connected to the natural beauty, heritage and strong community spirit of this region.

Before entering Parliament, I worked as a teacher, small business owner and union official. These experiences have shaped my values and continue to inform my work as a local Member.

As a former secondary school teacher, I strongly believe that education is the foundation of a healthy, fair and prosperous society. I am passionate about supporting learning at every stage, from early childhood through to TAFE, and ensuring our local schools have the resources and support they need so every student can reach their full potential.

Following my time in the classroom, I worked as a union official with the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association, advocating for the rights of retail and fast-food workers. This role strengthened my commitment to fairness, safe workplaces and standing up for people who may not always have a strong voice.

My next chapter was small business ownership. My husband Mike and I purchased a local organic grocery, driven by our shared belief in sustainability, local jobs and supporting ethical food production. Running our family business gave me firsthand experience of the challenges and opportunities facing local employers and workers. Small business is the largest employer in our state, and I draw on this experience every day in Parliament and my advocacy within Government.

I was elected to Parliament in 2022 and was recently appointed Secretary of the Parliamentary Labor Party. I am an Acting Speaker of the Legislative Assembly and serve as Deputy Chair of the Ethics Committee and as a member of the Legislative Assembly Environment and Planning Committee.

I live locally with my husband Mike. I’m the proud mum of my adult son Alex and my daughter Bella, currently completing Year 12, as well as a very energetic Aussie Shepherd/Border Collie dog and two cats who undeniably rule our home. Living in the community I represent keeps me closely connected to the issues that matter most.

As the local Member for Monbulk, my focus is on strengthening schools, improving access to health services, supporting emergency preparedness and our volunteer and community organisations, and addressing affordability pressures facing local families. It is an honour and a privilege to represent this wonderful community in one of the best places in the world.

I am regularly out and about across the hills, listening to locals and working to protect and enhance the vibrant communities that make Monbulk such a special place to live.

If you have any questions or concerns, you are welcome to visit my office at 1635 Burwood Highway, Belgrave, or contact me via the Contact page.

Meet Daniela

Your Member for Monbulk

My Background

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