Elected in 2013 as the Federal Member for Durack, Australia's largest electorate, Melissa was born in Kalgoorlie and now lives in Geraldton. A lawyer with over 20 years' experience, she has worked at Clayton Utz and CBH Group.

Throughout her twelve-year political career as a Member of Parliament, Melissa has held various Ministerial roles. These include Assistant Minister for the Environment, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Defence Industry, Minister for Science and Technology and Opposition Whip.

Melissa has also previously served as Deputy Chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, a Member of the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade, and a Member of the Trade Subcommittee.

Melissa is now the Shadow Minister for Cyber Security and the Shadow Minister for Science.

A passionate advocate for Durack's diverse industries and a strong supporter for local businesses and community groups, Melissa remains dedicated to serving her constituents.