I believe that humans need to be connected with each other. Health is improved and we gain purpose and meaning in our lives through connecting with others. Connected communities are thriving communities.
Regional life is valued for its sense of community. However, some say we are living through a pandemic of disconnection. Despite the rise of online social media engagement, many people are more lonely and isolated than ever. Digital connection is a pale imitation of real life connection and I will work to support initiatives that connect people with others and their communities.
If elected, I will prioritise:
- RECONNECTING people to the political process by creating ongoing opportunities for people to have genuine input about their hopes and concerns, to be heard, and be represented in Canberra.
- RECONNECTING people and services by improving access within and between our towns and villages.
- RECONNECTING all Australians by celebrating the gift of multiculturalism and diversity.
- RECONNECTING Australians to our full history through truth-telling and learning from our First Nations people about caring for each other and for country.
- RECONNECTING communities through adequate funding of organisations promoting sport, leisure, arts and cultural events.
- Safe and positive use of social media as an addition to real life social connection.
Calare is a big electorate and connection between towns, villages and the cities is a priority. Roads, rail, public transport and airlines all need to be funded well to improve connectivity. We need to seriously explore the transition to fast and efficient battery electric trains to connect towns within our region and to Sydney, an opportunity already being developed in Lithgow.
I will advocate at a federal level to ensure we secure funding to finish the Great Western Highway upgrade.