I work in the digital home team at CHOICE testing things like TVs, speakers, fitness bands and other household digital gadgets. I also work with some outdoor products like pressure cleaners, line trimmers and pool cleaners (it's nice to have a bit of variety). I have a Bachelor of Science from the University of Sydney, where I majored in computer science. Prior to CHOICE, I worked for an insurance company for 20 years as a programmer and analyst. I was looking for work when I came across the role at CHOICE and the idea of testing products was very appealing to me. I currently represent consumers on two Australian Standards committees: TE-021 – Energy performance for Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology and Associated Equipment EL-041 – Lamps and Related Equipment. CHOICE operates as an independent assessor of goods and services and we're almost exclusively funded by our members. We provide them with clear, unbiased reports on the goods and services they're buying, and when we purchase goods for testing, we do it independently and anonymously and test them using objective criteria. As such, we're keenly aware that we must produce high quality, unbiased assessments on the things people want to buy. I'm passionate about individual rights and think individuals working together to advance their mutual interests is the cause of all the progress that has been made in raising living standards and alleviating the suffering of the underprivileged. Monopolies produce terrible outcomes for consumers. In my spare time I enjoy reading (mainly military history), watching rugby, and skiing when I can get overseas. I'm also partial to Asian food, wine and a strong cup of tea (Assam is the best). LinkedIn

As a test coordinator at CHOICE I test a large range of home appliances in our labs, from espresso machines and kettles to vacuums, lawnmowers, pressure cleaners and more. I love my work because it allows me to use a hands-on approach to learn about a large range of products in the Australian market, and also gives me a great insight into how products and their respective industries work. It can be difficult for consumers to get a good sense of a product (especially an expensive one) without trying it out or if they only have one or two others to compare it to. When you have the ability to compare 15–20 of the same product at one time, you gain a great insight into their development and the relationships between competing companies. I believe this information is critical for a fair review and to help people buy goods that are worth their price tag. Before starting at CHOICE I studied agricultural science at the University of Sydney where I focused on plant genomics and molecular lab work. It was there that I learned my love of the scientific method and lab work, which is something I bring to my current role. It feels good to play a role in CHOICE's commitment to protect consumers and their rights. LinkedIn