John Barry Mildren was born on 20 October 1932 at Colac Victoria.  He was Member of the House of Representatives for Ballarat (Vic) from 18 Oct 1980-24 Mar 1990, when he lost his seat at the Federal Election. 
 
During his parliamentary career, John Mildren served as Deputy Chairman of Committees between 21 Apr 1983-? 24 Mar 1990 and Chairman of the Federal Parliamentary Labor Party from March 1983-1987.  In 1983 he was the Chairman of the Australia/Federal Republic of Germany Parliamentary Group and Acting Deputy Speaker.  He was also a member of the Australia/UK and the Australia/Ireland Parliamentary Groups.  

Before entering Parliament, Mildren was Head of the Department of School and Community Studies, at the Ballarat College of Advanced Education.  He obtained a Master of Education Degree in 1977 from the Texas A & M University.