In 2007 Amanda was elected as the Member for Kingston at 29 years of age.

Amanda is the Minister for Social Services. She previously held the positions of Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education and Development, Shadow Minister for Youth, and Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel.

Amanda was educated at state schools in Adelaide and was a volunteer swimming instructor and surf life saver.

During her university studies, Amanda worked as a sales assistant and developed a strong interest in workplace fairness. Amanda followed this passion to work in the trade union movement, both as a union representative and an occupational health and safety trainer.

Amanda graduated with a Bachelor of Psychology Honours from Flinders University and a Masters Degree in Psychology from Adelaide University. After graduating, Amanda practised as a psychologist working with General Practitioners in the delivery of mental health care to the community.

Amanda is passionate about improving the lives of Australian families, and ensuring children get the absolute best start to life. Amanda is a strong advocate on issues such bringing down the cost of high-quality early learning for families, ensuring healthcare is affordable and accessible for all, and creating and protecting secure, well-paid jobs.

Amanda lives in Hallett Cove, South Australia with her husband Tim and their two young sons, Percy and Oscar.