Gareth Ward

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Shoalhaven Heads Public School cheque (cropped)

Gareth Ward is an Australian politician who has served as a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly since 2011. He represents the electoral district of Kiama for the Liberal Party.

Early Life and Education

Gareth Ward was born on 27 July 1981 in Gerringong, a town in the Illawarra region of New South Wales. He attended Kiama High School and later studied at the University of Wollongong, where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Laws. He also holds a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the Australian National University.

Political Career

Ward began his political career as a councillor on the Shoalhaven City Council from 2004 to 2012. He was elected to the New South Wales Legislative Assembly in the 2011 state election, representing the seat of Kiama.

In 2019, Ward was appointed as the Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services in the Second Berejiklian ministry. He held this position until May 2021.

Controversies

In May 2021, Gareth Ward stepped aside from his ministerial duties following an investigation by the New South Wales Police Force into allegations of sexual violence. He has denied any wrongdoing and the investigation is ongoing.

Personal Life

Ward is legally blind, a condition he has had since birth. He is an advocate for disability rights and has been involved in various initiatives to support people with disabilities.

See Also

• New South Wales Legislative Assembly
• Liberal Party of Australia (New South Wales Division)
• Kiama
• Illawarra