Jinson lives in Australia with his wife, Anupriya John, and their two daughters, Aimie Kaitlyn Jinson (11) and Anna Isabel Jinson (5)
In a significant milestone for the Indian community, Kerala-born Jinson Anto Charls has become the first Indian to be appointed as a minister in an Australian local government. Representing the Labour Party, Jinson won a seat in the Northern Territory State Parliament and secured a position in the newly formed eight-member cabinet. His appointment marks a major achievement, especially for the Malayali diaspora.
Originally from Pathanamthitta, Kerala, Jinson moved to Australia in 2011, pursuing a career in nursing. Over the years, he climbed the ranks, holding prominent roles, including Director of Top End Mental Health for the Australian government. Alongside his professional career, he also contributes as an adjunct lecturer at Charles Darwin University. His expertise and leadership have now earned him portfolios covering sports, arts, culture, disability, multicultural affairs, veterans, and youth welfare in the Northern Territory parliament.
Jinson’s journey from Kerala to a leadership role in Australia offers inspiration to aspiring political leaders from migrant communities
Jinson’s political success also brings pride to his family. He is the nephew of Indian Congress MP Anto Antony, who expressed his joy over this achievement, calling it a “matter of great pride” for Malayalis in Australia. Jinson’s rise to the ministerial post within just 11 years of his arrival in Australia exemplifies his determination and commitment to public service.
Before his time in Australia, Jinson was actively involved in politics in Kerala, serving as unit president of the Kerala Students’ Union at Little Flower College of Nursing, Angamaly. His early political engagement included supporting his uncle during the 2009 Lok Sabha elections in Pathanamthitta. Now, his leadership in Australian governance stands as a testament to his abilities and determination, symbolizing the potential for greater representation of Indian migrants in global politics.
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