10 November 2024
Dr Sue Chapman endorsed as Community Independent candidate for federal election
Community group Voices for Forrest have endorsed Bunbury urological surgeon Dr Sue Chapman as a Community Independent candidate to contest the seat of Forrest at the next federal election.
Dr Chapman was revealed as the community-backed candidate at a launch event at the Sanctuary Golf Resort in Bunbury on Sunday.
More than 120 attendees heard about Dr Chapman’s connection with the region and why she is determined and prepared to represent South West communities at the upcoming election.
“I am committed to being an independent representative that stands up for our region and our communities,” Dr Chapman said.
“We live in the most beautiful part of this big country. I want the South West to be a place of abundance and opportunity - home to thriving communities, secure well-paying jobs, and access to protected natural environments.
“Right now our nation is in the grips of a cost of living crisis, a housing crisis, and a climate crisis, yet the response of the major parties to any of these significant issues is woefully inadequate.
“It is time that Forrest had a strong, capable, Independent voice in Canberra, and I am someone who works hard, who shows up, who listens and prioritises the needs of local people.”
Dr Chapman was selected by Voices for Forrest following an extensive candidate search and a rigorous selection process. The selection criteria and interview questions were informed by community feedback collected by Voices for Forrest volunteers.
The group spent more than a year listening to the community through kitchen table conversations, surveys, pop-up stalls and door knocking across the electorate which stretches from Harvey to Augusta, including Bunbury and Margaret River.
“What we heard from so many people is that politics as usual is not working for our communities,” Voices for Forrest Convenor Gita Sonnenberg said.
“People in the South West feel taken for granted. They are ready for a fresh approach and want to see politics done differently.
“Regional Independents such as Cathy McGowan and Helen Haines have demonstrated that independents deliver results by working with their communities and applying pressure on important issues regardless of who is in government.
“I am confident Dr Sue will work collaboratively and effectively with any government - Labor or Coalition - to find evidence-based solutions to the challenges facing South West communities right now.”
Having operated a surgical practice in Bunbury for 25 years, Dr Chapman admits that leaving the security of her established medical career is a leap of faith.
“I’m leaving behind the certainty, familiarity and comfort of my private life and a professional career that I love, but I know my skills as a surgeon have prepared me to be a strong representative for the people of Forrest,” Dr Chapman said.
“As a surgeon, an enormous amount of trust is placed in you every day and I do not take my responsibilities lightly. I know how to listen with empathy and help people when they’re at their most vulnerable. I am calm under pressure. I’m measured. I’m precise. And I’m a steady pair of hands.
“I think it is important to remember that statistics are not just numbers, they represent real people with families, goals and aspirations. I’m grateful for this opportunity to give back to this community and I won’t be taking a single person for granted.”
The next federal election is due in the first half of 2025.
ENDS
Media enquiries:
Cade Smith
0408 997 003
[email protected]
click here to download the statement