I’m contesting the seat of Macquarie for The Greens because I believe we have a historic opportunity at this election to ensure a decent future for the next generation and beyond. This means tackling climate change, providing affordable housing, and reducing inequality by making education and healthcare free and accessible for everyone. This includes bringing dental and mental health into Medicare so that no-one is denied these essential services.
Neither of the major parties will implement these essential changes by themselves, but with expectations of a hung parliament, an increased Greens presence in both houses can make these things happen.
During a long teaching career, mainly in remote and low socio-economic communities, I developed a passion for helping disadvantaged kids to realise their potential, and for pushing against the prejudice and privilege that denies them a level playing field. I am outraged that elite private schools receive a disproportionate share of government funding, building state-of-the-art theatres and swimming pools while public school students contend with overcrowded classrooms and substandard facilities.
A father of three, and now a grandfather, I am frankly terrified at the world that awaits my own loved ones, and all children and young people, unless the next government takes drastic action.
One reason I joined The Greens is because they’re the only party that does not accept donations from corporations. Big business doesn’t give money to political parties without expecting something in return. Labor and the Liberals take hundreds of thousands of dollars in corporate donations and give back millions in grants, subsidies, tax breaks and anything else they ask for – courtesy of the taxpayers. I believe there is something deeply wrong when a nurse or a teacher pays more tax than a giant corporation.
My priorities include:
-
real climate action, with no more approvals for new fossil fuel projects;
-
accelerating the shift to renewable energy while ensuring a just transition for workers in the dying fossil fuel industries;
-
an end to the logging of native forests, and better laws to protect our natural environment;
-
building sufficient public and social housing to end the growing curse of homelessness; and
-
increased government investment in cheap, efficient public transport – powered by renewables.
If elected as the next Member for Macquarie, I will pursue these goals relentlessly in the community and in the parliament.
Vote 1 The Greens, for real change.
