Born in Sydney but raised in Newcastle, Mark attended Macquarie University and was admitted into practice in 1992 and has worked in Newcastle since 1995 initially as an employed solicitor with Baker Love Solicitors. In 1996 Mark opened his own law firm. In 1999 he incorporated into his practice the longstanding Newcastle law firm of Borthwick, Wilson, Smith and Bates.

Mark is married with 2 adult children and spends his free time with his family and friends, enjoying heavy metal music, weight training as well as being an avid Sea Eagles supporter!