Peter has always lived in the Swan Hill Electorate. He was born and raised at Boort in Northern Victoria, attending Fernihurst Primary School and Boort Secondary College.

Before entering Parliament in November, 2002, Peter operated an irrigated horticulture and cropping enterprise, producing tomatoes, cereals, oilseeds and legumes.

Peter was awarded a Centenary Medal in 2003 for services to the environment. He is a keen Australian Rules Football fan (his favourite AFL team is Geelong) having served as a Boort player, committee man and selector. He was President of the Boort Football Club between 1988 and 1990.

Peter was also a member of the local Apex Club from 1982 to 1992, again including a term as President.

With his wife, Rosanne, he enjoys a busy lifestyle and they share an interest and involvement in community affairs.