Paul was born in Brisbane and attended St. Joseph's College, Gregory Terrace in Brisbane. He graduated from the University of Queensland Dental School in 1975 and then studied at the Royal College of Surgeons, London before completing a Masters Degree in Orthodontics at the University of Queensland in 1980. Paul is currently a member of the Australian, American and European Orthodontic Societies.
With his wife Kaye, Paul is raising their three children and has lived in Townsville since 1980. His interests include cinema, travel and most racquet sports, especially tennis. Paul is actively involved with the Cathedral School P & F Association and acts as a Consultant to the Armed Forces and assists on the Army Area Health Board.