Tony grew up in Pooraka where he still lives with his wife Vicki.

He was educated at Pooraka Primary School and Enfield High School.

He began his work career with the ANZ Bank, followed by 5 years as Research Officer to Sen Hon Jim Cavanagh.

In 1981 Tony established and part owned a local fitness centre which he managed until 2007 when he was elected to Federal Parliament as The Member for Makin.

He is an accredited Fitness and Rehabilitation instructor.

Tony also successfully competed in Powerlifting, winning 10 national titles and representing Australia in three world championships.

Between 1977 and 2007 Tony also served as an elected member of Salisbury Council and was Mayor from 1997 to 2007.

He also served on the executive of the SA Local Government Association, and as a member of The SA State Planning Commission, the Libraries Board of SA and The Australian Migrant Resources Centre Board.

In Federal Parliament Tony has held several responsibilities including as Assistant Shadow Minister for Health, Chairperson on the House of Representatives Standing Committee on the Environment, Deputy Chair of the Standing Committee On Public Works, Member of the House Standing Committee On Health, Aged Care And Sport, the Joint Committee On The Australian Commission For Law Enforcement Integrity, the Joint Standing Committee on Migration, and the Windsor Inquiry Into The Murray Darling Basin.

Tony has taken a particular interest in climate change, the environment, the Murray Darling Basin, aged care, manufacturing, live animal exports, and human rights issues.