Labor name Whiteaker to lead Senate ticket

WA Labor state secretary Ellie Whiteaker has been preselected to lead the party’s Senate ticket at the next federal election.

Ms Whiteaker has previously held positions as an organiser with the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union and UnionsWA, and in July 2022 became the first female state secretary for WA Labor.

She also previously held an adviser role with Senator Louise Pratt, who announced her retirement in February at the end of her term next year, after more than 20 years.

In a social media post, Ms Whiteaker confirmed she will continue in her role as state secretary and campaign director for Western Australia until the election, due before May 2025.

“I am so excited for the opportunity to join Anthony Albanese’s team in the federal parliament,” Ms Whiteaker said.

“It’s a government that has shown what a united Labor team can do for Australians.

“Seeing through an ambitious economic agenda that makes the economy work for everyone, not just a few.”

Ms Whiteaker is married to Cockburn MP David Scaife.