The people of Forrest are ready for change. They want to do politics differently. They want to be represented by someone who shares their values and aspirations.
It started with kitchen table conversations – neighbours and friends sharing their concerns and hopes for our region.
It continued with community door knocking – conversations with strangers about what is important to us.
It has grown into a grassroots movement of people across the South West stepping up to support a Community Independent who puts our community first.
I'm not backed by a political party. I'm backed by our community – local people who want to be better represented in Canberra.
The following priorities are what I'll be working to improve as your Independent Federal Member for Forrest. After more than a year of deep listening to our community, I know these priorities are the most pressing issues for our region.
Cost of Living
As a working mum and a doctor in the South West for 25 years, I understand the struggles of South West communities. Times have got tougher in recent years. From housing costs to grocery bills, childcare to healthcare – everyday people can't keep up. I'll push the government to do more to ease the cost of living burdens weighing people down right now. Read more about my cost of living priorities here.
Housing
Increasing housing prices and rental shortages are pricing people out of their local communities. Regional towns need greater federal investment in social and affordable housing. Developers must be required to plan neighbourhoods where people can thrive without destroying the environment that attracts them to the South West in the first place. Read more about my regional housing priorities here.
Healthcare
I have dedicated my life to providing quality healthcare to regional communities. I know the health challenges we face in the South West are not fixed by opening a shiny new hospital ward. We need better access to health and mental health services closer to home. As a surgeon and healthcare specialist, I won't play games with health funding; I will work with individuals and families to get results. Read more about my regional healthcare priorities here.
Environment
The South West is a globally recognised biodiversity hotspot. We have a responsibility to protect our unique, much-loved landscapes for our kids and grandkids. When developers bulldoze precious bushland and community voices are ignored, you know our environmental laws are broken. We don't have to choose between a strong local economy and abundant natural environments, we can have both. To achieve this, we need evidence-based decision-making and honest leadership. Read more about my environmental priorities here.
Integrity in Politics
Trust in politicians is low. As a medical professional, I've had immense trust placed in me, often when people are highly vulnerable. As an Independent MP, I will apply the same evidence-based approach, empathetic listening skills and local experience to restore your trust in our democracy. I want to do politics differently by being collaborative, transparent and accountable to you, the people of Forrest. Read more about my integrity priorities here.
I am committed to getting outcomes for our community on the priorities outlined above. If you have a particular topic or community issue you would like to discuss with me directly, please send me an email via my website contact form.