Cassandra Fernando, born on February 2, 1987, is an Australian politician of Sri Lankan descent affiliated with the Australian Labor Party (ALP). Since the 2022 federal election, she has served as the Member of Parliament for the Division of Holt.
Originally from Sri Lanka, Fernando migrated to Australia with her family at the age of 11 in 1999. Growing up in Dandenong North, Victoria, she pursued education in hospitality, earning diplomas in hospitality management and patisserie, alongside a certificate in education support.
Fernando’s professional journey commenced at Woolworths in Dandenong Plaza, where she dedicated nearly 15 years of service, notably as a pastry chef. Her involvement led her to become a delegate for the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA), eventually transitioning into a role as an SDA organizer for five years.
In March 2022, Fernando secured ALP preselection for the seat of Holt, succeeding the retiring MP Anthony Byrne. Notably, she is affiliated with the SDA faction, which, amidst federal intervention in the Victorian branch, retained the right to preselect candidates despite numerical disadvantages due to ethnic branch-stacking.
Fernando’s election marked a historic moment as the first Sri Lankan-born woman to hold a seat in the Australian Parliament, representing the electorate of Holt, Victoria.
Committing herself to legislative duties, Fernando serves on several parliamentary committees, including the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Employment, Education, and Training, as well as the Joint Standing Committee on Migration and the Parliamentary Library.
Within the ALP, she holds various positions, reflecting her dedication to party administration and governance. Prior to her parliamentary tenure, Fernando actively participated in party committees and campaigns.
Fernando’s personal journey as a migrant and her background as a pastry chef shape her advocacy. Her experiences at Woolworths and her tenure as a trade union official underscore her commitment to essential workers’ rights and community representation.
Furthermore, her engagement extends to volunteer work, notably tutoring migrants and refugees, reflecting her commitment to inclusivity and opportunity.
Motivated by her upbringing and guided by values of hard work, commitment, and gratitude instilled by her parents, Fernando aspires to serve her community diligently. She envisions a future where families, like hers, thrive under the auspices of a Labor Government, embodying her dedication to progress and equity in Holt.
