Joanna Gash obtained a Diploma of Tourism and Hospitality from the Institute of Administration (Sydney), and has held positions including Regional Manager, Tourism Commission of NSW (Outer Sydney Region); Director, Southern Highlands Tourism Agency; Consultant, Macarthur Country Tourist Association and Guest house co-proprieter. She is a former Councillor with the Wingecarribee Shire Council where she chaired the Works and Town Planning Committee from 1991 to 1995.

Gash has also served as president of the NSW Council of Tourist Associations; director of the Restaurant and Caterer's Association of NSW; delegate to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Advisory Board; delegate to the Women's Consultive Committee; delegate to the Domestic Violence Council, NSW; and Chairman of the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal. Since entering parliament she has been a member of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Employment, Education and Training (from 30 May 1996); Chair of the Coalition Defence and Veterans' Affairs Committee; Chair of the Australian Egypt Parliamentary Group and Deputy Chair of the Australian Parliamentary Christian Fellowship.

Gash has two daughters and enjoys reading, theatre and golf.

Sources used to compile this entry: http://www.gilmore.mhr.gov.au/bio.html accessed 14/11/01; http://www.aph.gov.au/house/members/biography.asp?id=AK6 accessed 14/11/01.