Before entering Parliament, Russell served as an official of the Transport Workers Union with direct responsibility for Gas Industry employees.

He has served on numerous government and community organisations including as a commissioner on the Occupational Health and Safety Commission; a member of the Workers Appeal Tribunal and the Industrial Relations Advisory Committee, and as a councillor on the Prospect City Council.

A Justice of the Peace, Russell’s interests include industrial relations, health, environment, sport, education, and social justice issues.

He is married and has one child.