What was it that motivated you most to enter politics?

Legislation coming through simply does not represent what every day Australians want. I decided to throw my hat in the ring because I want to do everything I can to see common sense brought back.

What led you to run in this year's election?

In Australia we are in the midst of a battle between left wing ideologies and common sense. We need more people standing up and saying no to green energy madness. We need more people standing up to fight for freedom of religion and freedom of speech. We need more people standing up to protect children from harmful ideologies. We need regular, run of the mill people in government holding the major parties to account which is exactly what I plan to do.

What do you think people tend to misunderstand about politics in Calare?

Our electorate needs an MP that can speak on behalf of the people. A person that knows what it’s like to work a regular job like everyone else. I am encouraging voters to check out each candidates website to see the policies they stand for and importantly, where they receive their funding from.

You're running as a Family First candidate, what does it mean for you to be a member of that party?

Family first is passionate about seeing the traditional family unit upheld in Australian politics rather than being forgotten. Healthy functioning family’s [sic] produce healthy functioning societies. Family First stands to protect human life from the moment of conception through until natural death. We are passionate about protecting the freedoms of faith based schools and religious freedom for all Australians.

How will you work with other country MPs to influence change?

We need to have real and mature discussions about the problems our communities are facing and then work together to address them in whatever ways we can. No single politician has all the answers. MP’s need to have the humility to work together with people that hold opposing views because that is what democracy is all about.

What has your experience been in the community before running for Calare? How have you helped locals in the region?

Over the years I have been involved with our local school P&C in various capacities. I have also run a variety of events through local churches to help reach people in all manner of need.

What have you heard are the biggest issues for residents across Calare, and what will you do about them if elected?

I think the cost of living crisis is the greatest issue facing most residents across Calare. The cost of fuel, groceries, rent and energy have all exploded. We need a sensible, sustainable approach to energy and accountability when it comes to Government spending.

What are your next steps on going forward? How will you keep contributing to the community independent of an election result?

Regardless of the election result, I will continue to speak out in any way I can to help our electorate to avoid unnecessary mistakes and wastage in the name of current trends and ideologies. We need to care first and foremost for our own people. We need to make sure regular, everyday citizens in Calare can afford to run their car, buy groceries and heat their homes in winter.

CONTRIBUTED BY ROSS HAZELTON