About Jing
JING LEE FOR A BETTER
2010
Jing Lee is a proud Australian, a passionate South Australian leader, a strong business and industry advocate, and a trailblazer in multicultural representation.
With over 15 years in parliament, including in senior leadership roles, Jing is committed to working with South Australians from diverse backgrounds to drive meaningful change through practical community-focused policies that create positive social and economic outcomes for our community.
Born in Malaysia and migrating to South Australia in 1979, Jing brings a unique perspective to public service; one shaped by lived experience, cultural diversity, and gratitude for the opportunities Australia has provided to her and her family.
In 2010, she made history and became the first Malaysian-born Member of the South Australian Parliament and has since become one of the state’s most respected voices in multicultural affairs, business, and grassroots engagement.
Jing has consistently championed diversity and inclusion, small and family businesses, social and cultural policies, and economic development—driven by a deep belief in the power of community and enterprise to shape a better future.
Jing believes that South Australians deserve leaders who listen, act with integrity, and work collaboratively to deliver real outcomes.
South Australians deserve a hardworking representative who has the courage to stand up for our community. In January 2025, Jing left the major parties to serve as an Independent Member of the Legislative Council. Her time as an Independent has been marked by active patronage and engagement, open dialogue with constituents, practical problem-solving, and a renewed focus on Putting Community First.
First Malaysian-Australian elected as Member of South Australian Parliament
2010-2018
Appointed Shadow Assistant Minister in a range of portfolios
2018
Successfully re-elected to the Legislative Council
2018-2022
Only first-generation migrant to be appointed as Assistant Minister to the Premier
Encouraged by widespread community support, Jing announced a new political movement in May 2025, called Jing Lee – Better Community.
A better community means a place where individuals feel a sense of belonging and a shared purpose, leading to collective growth and well-being. Ultimately, a better community strives to meet the needs and aspirations of all its members and promotes a positive and thriving society for everyone to grow and prosper.
Jing Lee – Better Community provides a clear and accessible platform for people from all walks of life to work together to make this vision a reality.
It is a direct response to the community’s call for a more positive, inclusive, and accountable approach to politics.
This new party reflects the values that have always guided Jing’s moral compass and work ethos: respect, trust, integrity, inclusivity, and accountability.
Jing believes that true leadership is not about provoking unfounded doubts, fears or division—it’s about offering hope, building trust, and working together to find practical solutions.
Her policies are shaped by listening to our community. Jing believes that good policy starts with people – with their lived experiences, their challenges, and their aspirations.
Jing Lee – Better Community is built around three key priorities:
Better Community, Safer Society, and Stronger Economy.
These pillars reflect Jing’s commitment to always put community first and create better opportunities for all South Australians – no matter where they live, work, or come from.
2022-2025
Elected to senior position of Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council
JAN 2025
Jing became an Independent Member of Parliament
MAY 2025
Jing established a new political party: Jing Lee – Better Community
