2019-03-06
By Hon. Tim Clifford, MLC for East Metropolitan
Community engagement
This year has kicked off to a great start, beginning with the launch of ‘Tim on Tour’. Each week I head out to a different suburb within the East Metro region to grab a coffee and have a chat to the local residents. So far, the response has been fantastic, especially in some of the outer suburbs who tend to miss out on these opportunities.
The informality of the meetings has provided such a great platform for me to learn about the local issues, and for the community to know they are being heard. We’ve even managed to pick up an intern in the process!
Federal election
These past few months have been election mania, and it’s only going to get crazier from here. What has been pleasing to see is the level of engagement from our supporters and members in support of the federal election campaign. I’ve loved chatting all things politics while volunteering alongside our supporters at stalls, doorknocks and phonebanks across the metropolitan region. With the large amounts of money being poured in by the big corporate interests into both Liberal and Labor coffers, it is critical we get out there and speak to the public to let them know that we are fighting for a better planet and community.
Looking ahead
Last year was dominated by climate change, electric vehicles, renter’s rights, sustainable development, and local community issues. And this year is likely to be much of the same.
Climate change is, finally, a key issue, particularly in the lead up to the Federal election. Unfortunately, there has been much talk and little action. Since parliament resumed in February, I have continued to question the State Government about its future climate change policy. And I will continue to do so until WA has a comprehensive policy with a strong focus on emission reduction and renewable energy. It is vital that all levels of governance are active in the mitigation of climate change, and it is our responsibility to ensure they do just that.
Header photo: Tim at a banner painting event.