Career
Ibbett was born in Redfern, New South Wales, and worked as a toolmaker. Early in life he joined the Australian Labor Party and the Australian Metal Workers" Union. In 1960, he was elected to Sydney City Council for Northcott Ward, serving until 1967 and again for Waterloo Ward from 1982 to 1984.
In 1984, he was elected to the New South Wales Legislative Council, serving until 1991.
