Meet David

Hi, I'm David Kempton, your State Member for Cook.

I’m proud to have been selected as the Liberal National Party candidate for the seat of Cook ahead of the state election in October 2024.

Representing the electorate of Cook in the Queensland Parliament is a special responsibility, because of the diversity and complexity of its communities and the extraordinary landscapes stretching from Mareeba, Mossman and Port Douglas, through Cape York Peninsula into the Torres Strait Islands.

Having lived, worked and raised my family in Far North Queensland, I’ve committed the larger part of my working life to the people, communities and industries in the electorate of Cook.

In 1988, I established the first law practice in Cooktown for 50 years, served on numerous community groups, was on the executive of the Cattleman’s Union and worked for cattle, mining and tourism industry interests.

In 2012, I was elected as the Member for Cook and fought hard for three years on behalf of people I represented. More recently, I served as Chair of Regional Development Australia Tropical North. Through these roles, I’ve developed an even deeper understanding of our region, following on from the decades of experience I gained working in the legal profession.

I understand how the interests of our communities and industries overlap and compete. I understand the need for balance between our grazing, tourism, mining, forestry and fishing industries. I see how our local communities need better health, education and communications infrastructure. I see the need for investment in our roads and bridges.

Cook has a lot in common with the rest of Queensland, but the way issues like the cost of living, community safety, housing and health services impact on the people of Far North Queensland a bit different. We have unique challenges, which need local solutions.

I have the experience and determination to provide the leadership and advocacy required to effectively represent the regional, rural and remote communities of Cook in the Queensland Parliament.

I'm ready to take up the fight on the issues where Labor has gone missing over the last decade, including the Barron River bridge, the inadequate response to Cyclone Jasper, the future of the Mossman Mill and the run-away youth crime and domestic violence problems that have made people feel unsafe in their own homes.

If elected in October, I undertake to move the Cook electorate office back into the electorate and be a visible and accessible local MP for all constituents.