Julie Bishop reveals why she fell in love with a property developer on the other side of the country

Julie Bishop, 63, tells why she fell in love with a property developer who lives on the other side of the country – and reveals her career plans for the next 20 years

  • Former foreign minister Julie Bishop has told why she fell in love with her partner
  • The 63-year-old has been with property developer David Panton for five years 
  • The couple are in a long distance relationship between Perth and Manly, Sydney
  • Ms Bishop is hoping to have another 20-year career in the private sector 

Former foreign minister Julie Bishop has told why she fell in love with partner David Panton, and what she plans for the future after her sudden departure from politics.

While she is based in the Western Australia capital of Perth, her property developer partner is based in the Sydney beach-side suburb of Manly. 

The pair have been together for five years and Ms Bishop has now given a rare insight into her personal life with the 58-year-old.  

Former foreign minister Julie Bishop has told why she fell in love with property developer  David Panton (pictured)

Talking to The Sydney Morning Herald, the 63-year-old said she was attracted to everything about Mr Panton. 

‘He’s a very independent-minded and successful businessman, and he has a delightful sense of humour. He makes me laugh,’ she said.

Far from thinking of a move to the Emerald City, Ms Bishop has previously said having a long-distance relationship can be fun. 

Ms Bishop and Mr Panton publicly stepped out together in 2014, with the glamorous power couple regularly spotted at glamorous events like the wedding of Karl Stefanovic and Jasmine Yarbrough.

The couple bonded over their love of health and fitness.

Although Ms Bishop retired from politics in February, she has no plans of slowing down and has already made the next move for another 20 year career.

Ms Bishop recently turned down a $315,000 offer to become South Australia’s next governor to take on the lucrative speaking circuit instead.

Although Ms Bishop (pictured in May) retired from politics in February, she has no plans of slowing down and has already made the next move

Although Ms Bishop (pictured in May) retired from politics in February, she has no plans of slowing down and has already made the next move

She signed an exclusive deal with Sydney-based Claxton Speakers International in May to speak at various events and forums on issues mainly related to foreign affairs, leadership and global challenges. 

‘I always hoped to have a good career post-politics, I had 20 years in my legal career. Now I’ve had 20 years in the political career and I’ve fulfilled my great dream to be Australia’s foreign minister.’ the 63-year-old told the publication. 

‘After five years in that role, it was time to move on. Now I’m hoping for a third 20-year career in the private sector.’

Ms Bishop and Mr Panton publicly stepped out together in 2014 (pictured in June 2019)

Ms Bishop and Mr Panton publicly stepped out together in 2014 (pictured in June 2019)

Ms Bishop had previously been tipped to be Australia’s next ambassador to the US to take over from the departing Joe Hockey but she said she had no interest in playing a diplomatic role.

Ms Bishop was appointed Australia’s first female foreign minister in September 2013 and she stayed in her position until August 28, 2018 when she resigned following a Liberal leadership spill.

The speaking circuit is popular with former politicians and sportsmen but it is former prime ministers and presidents who rake in the most money.

Former US President Barack Obama earns $400,000 for each speech, according to news reports. 

‘A good and faithful servant’: The illustrious career of Julie Bishop 

* Born July 17, 1956 in Lobethal, South Australia

* Elected as the federal member for Curtin in 1998

* First appointed to the frontbench by John Howard in 2003 when made minister for ageing.

* Education, Science and Training Minister (2006-2007)

* Foreign Affairs Minister 2013-1018

* Deputy Liberal leader since November 29, 2007, serving alongside Brendan Nelson, Malcolm Turnbull, Tony Abbott and Malcolm Turnbull

* Deputy Opposition Leader 2007-2013

* Holds the very safe Perth-based seat of Curtin with a margin of 18.2 per cent.

* Divorced, but in long term relationship with David Panton. No children

* Known for her sharp style, steely stare and fitness, taking daily runs even when travelling overseas

* Also renowned as a great campaigner and fundraiser within the Liberal party

* Well-regarded on the world stage and took a major role after the MH17 atrocity

* Studied law at Adelaide University

* Graduate of the advanced management program at Harvard Business School

* Managing partner at Clayton Utz law firm in Perth, 1994-98 until her election to parliament.

Source: AAP 

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