The Whitsunday Chamber Of Commerce And Industry Meet The Federal Election Candidates Event

In the lead up to the Federal Election on Saturday May 3, Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a Meet the Federal Election Candidates Event, last Tuesday.

The event began with a statement from Queensland Senate candidate Jason Brown – Independent. Jason was given six minutes to answer the following questions.

• What are your business credentials and experience?
• As an elected senator for Queensland, what will you specifically do, and how will you achieve it?
• Political history indicates that to be a successful Senate candidate, you will need a preference strategy which favours minor part. Do you have any preference deals? And if you don't, how are you anticipating winning the quota?
• As a member of the Senate, who will you support when it comes to voting on legislation?
• As you are expected to read, every piece of legislation on its merits. And how will you do this? And what resources will you use to help you?
• Why will you be the best candidate for the Whitsunday business community?

A forum with the House of Representatives candidates followed, and it was facilitated by Judy Porter, of Shiift.

Paula Creen – Australian Greens
Michael Lockyer – Trumpet of Patriots
Amanda Nickson – Family First Party
Neil Wallace – Australian Labor Party
Andrew Willcox – Liberal National Party

In addition to presenting their business experience and vision for the region, candidates responded to questions on:

• Federal funding for urgent road improvements,
• Insurance accessibility and affordability,
• All-weather tourism and seasonal visitor flow,
• Government spending and economic efficiency,
• Possibilities for Proserpine,
• and more.

Chamber President Allan Milostic said Chamber was proud to facilitate the forum, and to give businesses in the region the opportunity to hear directly from those seeking to represent the Whitsundays at the federal level.

“As the united voice of business in our region, the Chamber is committed to ensuring that local priorities are understood, and that policy decisions are informed by the practical realities faced by those who live and work here,” he said.

“The event provided an opportunity for open, respectful discussion on the issues that matter to our members—economic growth, infrastructure, workforce, regulatory reform, and regional investment.

“We encouraged all candidates to speak directly to how their policies will support the long-term prosperity of our businesses and communities.

“We were delighted with the strong turn out and participation from the candidates.”

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Amanda Nickson, Michael Lockyer, Andrew Willcox, Neil Wallace, Paula Creen and Jason Brown

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