David was elected to the South Australian Legislative Council in 2002. In 2005 David was appointed Shadow Parliamentary Secretary, before serving in a variety of shadow portfolio areas from 2006 to 2018.

David grew up in the small rural community of Wolseley, South Australia. Prior to entering public life, David fostered his interest in primary industries and regional affairs by taking over management of his family’s farm, which had grown into a large-scale horticultural operation.

David is married to Meredith and together they have three adult children: Ashleigh, Tara and Louis. Outside his role as a Member of Parliament, David enjoys spending time with his family, exploring South Australia’s unique regions and supporting the Adelaide Strikers cricket team.

South Australian Parliament

• 2019 – appointed Minister for Trade & Investment and Member of the Executive Council
• 2018 - appointed Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment and Member of the Executive Council
• 2017 – appointed Shadow Minister for Regional Development, Primary Industries, Tourism
• 2013 - appointed Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, Forests and Tourism
• 2007 - appointed Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council
• 2007 - appointed Shadow Minister for Police and Mineral Resources Development (retained Urban Development & Planning)
• 2006 - appointed Shadow Minister for Environment and Conservation, The River Murray and Urban Development & Planning
• 2005 - appointed Shadow Parliamentary Secretary
• 2002 - elected from fourth position on the Liberal ticket at the election