Don was born November 1958, and is married with two stepchildren and three grandchildren.
He completed his first year of Arts at Monash University in 1978, and achieved his First Class Welder Certificates in the early 1980s, and his Crane Driver and Chaser Licence in 1981. He was a member of the Amalgamated Metal Workers Union.
Don has a wealth of life experience. Before he entered parliament, Don worked as a Guillotine Operator, Quality Control Inspector, Tradesman's Assistant, First Class Welder and an ALP Organiser.
He was elected the member for Melton 18 September 1999 and was previously Member of the Legislative Council for Melbourne North Province 1992 - 1999.
Don was Shadow Minister for Aged Care and Shadow Minister Assisting on WorkCover from 1995-96, and for Consumer Affairs and Assisting in WorkCover 1998-99.
Don is a member of the Melton Environment Group, Melton Adventure Playground, and enjoys spending time with his grandchildren and listening to heavy metal music.