Former South Australian environment minister David Speirs has been installed as Liberal Party’s first new parliamentary leader in more than nine years, replacing former premier Steven Marshall, who resigned as a party leader after February’s state election loss. He comprehensively won the ballot, securing 18 votes to Josh Teague’s five and Nick McBride’s one.
Here is everything you need to know about David Spiers, including his early life, parliamentary career, and personal life.
Who is David Speirs?
Born in Scotland, David Speirs is an Australian politician who has been the leader of the Liberal Party since April 19, 2022. He has been a Liberal member of the South Australian House of Assembly since the 2014 state election.
He served as the Minister of Environment and Water in the Marshall Ministry between March 2018 and March 2022.
David Speirs’ Early Life: Age, Family, Education
David Speirs was born on December 15, 1984, in the town of Stranraer, in the ancient region of Galloway, an agricultural district in Scotland’s southwestern corner.
Speirs is the first-born child of his parents. He grew up in the small village of Kirkcolm with his two younger brothers. He was schooled at Kirkcolm Primary School, with only 40 pupils. In 1996, he began secondary school at Stranraer Academy and graduated in 2002.
In 2002, soon after his graduation, Speirs’ parents relocated the family to South Australia in search of better opportunities, with both leaving successful small businesses and their families and friends in Scotland. At the time, he was 17 years old.
Now 37 years old, Speirs studied Law and Environmental Studies at the University of Adelaide, graduating with Honours in 2008.
David Speirs’ Early and Parliamentary Career
David Speirs’ first profession was a surf lifesaver at Brighton. He then worked with an African-based children’s charity, Watoto, which saw him travel to Uganda twice in 2007 and 2009 to be part of volunteer projects there.
In 2010, Speirs was elected to represent Coastal Ward in the City of Marion. He served as Deputy Mayor between 2011 and 2012, before contesting and winning the seat of Bright for the Liberal Party in the 2014 state election.
In October 2014, Speirs was appointed to the Parliament’s Economic and Finance Committee. He got elevated to Steven Marshall’s Shadow Cabinet as Shadow Cabinet Secretary in January 2016. He then became Shadow Minister for the Environment in January 2017.
Following the election of the Marshall Liberal Government in March 2018, Speirs became South Australia’s Minister for Environment and Water. On April 19, 2022, he was elected leader of the Liberal Party, following the resignation of outgoing Premier Steven Marshall, becoming South Australia’s 44th Leader of the Opposition Party.
David Speirs’ Married Life: His Wife & Kids
David Speirs is a happily married man. He has been married to his longtime wife Hannah, who he calls his “best friend” and “soul mate”.
The new South Australian Opposition Leader hasn’t disclosed much about his marriage with his wife. But he and his wife, Hannah, said “I Do” in April 2013.
In 2014, during his maiden speech at Liberal Party’s parliament, Speirs thanked his wife for always encouraging and supporting him and driving him across the winning line. At the time, he also revealed that his wife arranged their amazing wedding during an election year.
Speirs’ social media accounts suggest that he has two children – a son and a daughter. He is a caring and loving father and loves to spend time with his children.
After his election as the leader of the Liberal party, he said:
“I am confident the Liberal Party will return to Government in 2026 to achieve the best outcomes for South Australians. For now, I am excited to take a step back and spend more time with my children while I continue to represent the people of Dunstan.”
This April, Speirs and his wife, Hannah, celebrated their 9th wedding anniversary.
FAQs
How old is David Speirs?
Ans: David Speirs was born on December 15, 1984, which makes his birth sign Sagittarius. He is currently 37 years old.
Where is David Speirs from?
Ans: David Speirs is originally from the town of Stranraer, in the ancient region of Galloway, an agricultural district in Scotland’s southwestern corner. He moved to Australia in 2002.
Who are David Speirs’ Parents?
Ans: Speir’s hasn’t revealed his father’s identity, but his mother’s name is Mary. His mother is his biggest personal inspiration, and he would be forever grateful for all his mother has done for him.
What ethnicity is David Speirs?
Ans: Speirs is of Scottish and Northern Irish descent. He is Northern Irish from his mother’s side.
