Born and raised on a farm near Maitland on the Yorke Peninsula, Emily understands the value of working together to achieve the best outcome for a community.

After completing her schooling at Maitland, Emily moved to Adelaide to study, before returning to the Yorke Peninsula to work at the local newspaper for three years.

Emily has committed most of her working life listening and acting to support individuals, community groups and the South Australian business community through her roles in both state and federal government.

Emily married Yorke Peninsula local, Aemon Bourke. Emily and Aemon now live in Adelaide and have three daughters.