From the aisles of Hungry Jack’s at Melbourne Airport to the halls of Federal Parliament, Basem Abdo’s journey reflects the grit and hope of Melbourne’s north– and now, as Labor’s newly elected Member for Calwell.
With the final Calwell result delayed by tight preferences and scrutiny over declarations, Mr Abdo now steps into federal parliament with a promise to deliver for the people who shaped him.
“I grew up in Melbourne’s north, and I’m raising my family locally,” Mr Abdo said.
“So, I understand both what makes our community strong, and the challenges people face every day– because that’s what shaped me.”
Mr Abdo said he’s committed to fighting for better education, secure jobs, and more affordable essentials for local families.
“I know what it’s like for families to work hard just to make ends meet–and I want to use my voice to back in what’s great about our community, while also tackling the things that hold people back.”
At the heart of his plan is education and employment.
Mr Abdo said Labor’s Free TAFE initiative is already opening doors: “It’s not just for young people finishing school. It’s also for people re-skilling or returning to the workforce.”
He’s also backing a University Study Hub to lift local participation and a local employment hub to align training with real jobs.
“Calwell used to be the manufacturing heart of Australia and we saw what secure jobs meant for families.”
Mr Abdo said being part of the community keeps him grounded.
“Everyone deserves the chance to live, study, and earn a decent living wage right here in Melbourne’s north.”
He also emphasised the need for wraparound support– from mental health care to cheaper medicines and childcare.
“That means smart investment, inclusive planning, and policies that respond to the real needs of local people.”
“I started working at Hungry Jack’s at Melbourne Airport as soon as I hit the minimum working age,” Mr Abdo said.
“That early work gave me a deep respect for the dignity of work and the importance of having local opportunities.”
