It’s time to vote… Mackellar!
The Federal Election is on Saturday May 3, and the House of Representatives seat of Mackellar has 9 candidates running.
Unsure who you want to vote for, or even who the candidates for Mackellar are? We reached out to every one of them and asked them a series of questions proposed by members in our Northern Beaches Living Facebook group. Every candidate received the same questions via their publicly listed email address.
Below are their responses in the order they appear on the ballot. Any candidate who has not yet responded may do so at any time and we will add to this list – just contact info@thelivingcollective.com.au.
But first, a bit about voting in the Federal Election…
Do I have to vote? Yes, enrolling and voting is compulsory for Australian citizens aged 18 years and over.
Where can I vote? You can vote at any polling place in your state or territory on election day. Polling places are open from 8am to 6pm. To find your nearest polling place visit aec.gov.au/where
How can I vote early in person? Hundreds of early voting centres will be open progressively from Tuesday 22 April 2025 and will run up to and including Friday 2 May. Check the opening dates as not all early voting centres are open for the entire two-week early voting period. For information on eligibility and locations for early voting visit aec.gov.au/election/
How can I vote early by post? Postal vote applications for eligible voters are now open for the 2025 federal election. Check your eligibility and apply online at aec.gov.au/pva.
House of Representatives Candidates for Mackellar
Lisa Cotton, Independent
Give us your elevator pitch – why should the people of Mackellar vote for you?
I’m Lisa Cotton, born and raised on the northern beaches, enjoying my time at the beach and the bush with my family and friends. My journey began at Manly, Allambie Heights, and then Beacon Hill High School, where I enjoyed chess, debating, cricket, and music and school council. After winning a talent quest at Warringah Mall at age five I became a professional singer which gave me confidence and skills I use to this day.
Now, I live in Church Point with my husband a Mackellar resident his entire life and a local dentist in Mona Vale and Warringah Mall, with our 12-year-old daughter, an artist and designers who proudly wears her ‘Future Prime Minister’ T-shirt wherever she can.
I am deeply committed to making a meaningful impact in our community, both locally and globally. As the founder of a domestic violence and family crisis support service in Mackellar, I have dedicated myself to helping those in need.
Additionally, I serve as a Chaplain on cruise and container ships, providing support to thousands of seamen and women who often endure challenging conditions away from their families for up to nine months at a time working tirelessly serving the Australian community.
One of my proudest recent achievements is the success of the 100 Good Men campaign, from the Torchlight Volunteer Hub at Warriewood, which encourages men to join the conversation and build better relationships and connections.
This initiative aims to reduce addiction and mental health issues, education and awareness of domestic come by fostering open dialogue and support among men.
With years of experience as a former parliament staffer, community consultant, business consultant and chaplain, I have consistently sought to service and support all members of the community.
Through the universal language of music I have for over 40 years entertained the community providing warm connection through singing jazz and other genres including opera, pop and inspirational performances to bring communities together to dance, sing and celebrate. This has been a valuable way to building bridges across the generations and many ethnic and faith communities.
I believe in empowering our residents and addressing the pressing issues we face together. If elected, I will be a strong advocate for our values and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that Mackellar remains a vibrant place for families to live, work, visit and thrive.
What is your connection to the Mackellar area and tell us three places in the electorate that you love.
My connection to the Mackellar area runs deep as I’ve spent my life building memories in this beautiful part of the world. One of my favorite spots is The Basin, where I have been camping since childhood. It holds a special place in my heart, as I would fish and feast on oysters there, sometimes staying for weeks with minimal provisions. Those experiences taught me resilience and helped me forge a strong connection to the land and community.
Another favourite location is the Church Point waterfront and the stunning Pittwater, where I now live with my husband, daughter, and our dogs. This area is not only our home but also a gathering place filled with vibrant community spirit and gorgeous views of the adjacent beaches.
Lastly, Narrabeen Lakes became my sanctuary during the COVID pandemic. Walking around the lakes offered me serenity, and it was a wonderful way to connect with the community and their beloved dogs. These places reflect the essence of Mackellar and have shaped my appreciation for community, connection and nature.
What do you see as the key issues Australian people will consider when casting their vote in the Federal Election?
As I’ve engaged with our community throughout this campaign, several key issues have emerged that resonate with Australian voters as they consider their choices in the upcoming Federal Election.
Firstly, the cost of living is a critical concern. Many families are feeling the pinch, and addressing the housing crisis is essential to ensure everyone has access to secure and affordable accommodation. Alongside this, access to relevant education and affordable healthcare, including dental services and mental health support, especially for our aging population, are paramount.
Moreover, there is a pressing need for better management of our rich natural resources, including gas, oil, and iron ore. Australians are increasingly concerned about the insurmountable debt weighing heavily on our citizens, compounded by inflation that lacks a concise plan for remedying the situation.
A particularly alarming issue is the ever-increasing threat of domestic violence, especially gender-based violence, which has tragically resulted in three women being murdered in the past week alone. The family court system has been noted as particularly damaging to children and families, and we must advocate for early intervention strategies that can prevent the breakdown of this crucial cornerstone of our society.
Safety at school has also been raised as a point of concern as well as access to quality medical care. My family has had first hand experience of some of the gaps in the system and I intend to be a voice for the community as a whole in this regard.
Voters are also focused on the care for our planet. The environment and the preservation of our natural beauty in places like Mackellar are important to many; we must maintain the treasures we live in, including our diverse animal and plant life.
Additionally, there’s a strong desire for a warm, connected community where families feel safe. Secure borders and effective immigration policies are high priorities, particularly in addressing some of the challenges we face as a community. Threats of foreign aggression and unrest loom over our normally peaceful populace, making it imperative for us to safeguard our values and security.
These issues highlight the need for a government that listens to the concerns of its people and implements policies that foster a thriving, resilient, and inclusive society.
If you were to introduce one bill to bring before parliament, what would it be?
Immigration Reform Bill: Australian Values and Security Assurance
Purpose: This bill aims to reform the immigration application process to ensure that new immigrants align with Australian values and contribute positively to the community while enhancing national security.
Key Provisions:
- Australian Values Testing: All immigration applicants will be required to undergo an Australian values assessment to ensure they understand and respect the core values of Australian society, including democracy, the rule of law, and mutual respect for all individuals.
- Radical Ideology Screening: The bill will introduce measures to screen immigration applicants for any affiliation with radical ideologies that contradict Australian values. This screening will involve background checks, interviews, and assessments by trained professionals to identify any potential risks related to extremism or radicalization.
- Historical Criminal or Harmful History Check: Applicants will be required to disclose any previous criminal history or involvement in harmful behaviors, including domestic violence, drug trafficking, or other actions that pose a threat to community safety. Comprehensive background checks will be conducted through national and international databases.
- Community Engagement Programs: New immigrants will be encouraged to participate in community orientation programs that familiarize them with Australian culture, laws, and social expectations, fostering integration and community ties.
- Ongoing Monitoring: The bill will establish a framework for ongoing monitoring of immigrants who have passed through the application process to ensure continued understanding and acknowledgment of Australian values and laws.
- Appeal and Review Process: A transparent appeal process will be set up for applicants who may be denied on the grounds of failing to meet the values testing or screening criteria, ensuring that decisions are fair and just.
Conclusion: This Immigration Reform Bill emphasises the importance of maintaining a harmonious and secure society by ensuring that those who wish to become part of Australia share its values and contribute positively. By introducing these assessments and checks, we can better safeguard community interests and promote successful integration of new residents into our diverse society.
How can the people of Mackellar contact you and stay in touch with your campaign? Please include your website and social accounts if applicable.
The people of Mackellar can easily reach out and stay connected with my campaign through multiple channels. My official website, lisacotton.org
– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574764447129
Coming soon:
– TikTok
These social platforms cater to a diverse demographic across Mackellar, offering various ways to connect and participate in discussions.
To engage directly with the community, I will host a range of events, such as:
– Zoom Meetings and Webinars: For those who prefer to join from home, providing an opportunity to participate in discussions on important topics.
– In-Person Community Meetings: Regular gatherings to connect face-to-face with residents and hear their concerns.
– Visits to Retirement and Nursing Homes: Ensuring that our senior citizens’ voices are heard and their needs are addressed.
– Disability Care Facilities: Engaging with individuals with disabilities and their families to understand their unique perspectives and challenges.
– Open-Air Events and Concerts: Creating a vibrant atmosphere for community engagement and connection.
– Have Your Say Events such as Speaker’s Corner, where everyone is invited to share their views and ideas in an open forum.
It is my belief that when people are heard, connections are built and maintained. This fosters a strong, secure, trusting, respectful, and kind community that cares for one another, serves one another, and celebrates our achievements together.
I look forward to working with and serving my fellow residents of Mackellar.
Brad Hayman, One Nation
Give us your elevator pitch – why should the people of Mackellar vote for you?
Like many Australians, I’ve watched as the cost of living rises, housing becomes unaffordable, and small businesses struggle. Families are told what to think, while decisions are being made behind closed doors, leaving everyday Australians out of the conversations that shape their future. As a small business owner, I understand the challenges people face just to stay afloat. Australians are losing trust in a government that seems disconnected from the people it represents. I’m standing for policies that restore affordable housing, protect local jobs, and keep essential services in Australian hands. This includes lowering energy costs, removing political agendas from schools, ensuring foreign companies pay their fair share of tax, and maintaining immigration at a level that is sustainable and in Australia’s best interests. This election, your vote can make an impact. It’s time for leadership that listens, acts with integrity, and ensures Australians are heard, bringing meaningful change and restoring confidence in our future.
What is your connection to the Mackellar area and tell us three places in the electorate that you love.
My family and I first moved to Mackellar in 2002. My children have grown up exploring the beaches and footpaths, our family being active in sports and community, working and growing businesses ever since.
My 3 favorite spots are:
1. Manly at sunset
2. Walking from Bayview to Church’s point
3. The hustle and bustle of Warringah Mall on a busy Saturday morning
What do you see as the key issues Australian people will consider when casting their vote in the Federal Election?
1. Cost of Living – Since Covid everything is massively more expensive. My own electricity is up 40% in the past 2 years in spite of reducing consumption by 14%. My rental is up 60% in 18 months. Every Australian will increasingly be impacted by the political and energy policies that the Teals, Liberals, Labor and the Greens are implementing, which include mass uncontrolled immigration and a net-zero energy economy.
If you were to introduce one bill to bring before parliament, what would it be?
To bring clarity and scrutiny to the Net-Zero energy policy that is already hugely impacting energy costs and which is currently contributing to the closing of record numbers of small businesses, both here and in Europe, with the UK predicted to be into permanent recession because of these policies. Green energy is amazing, but when it is hijacked by special interests, when there are hidden fees, kickbacks and subsidies, when monetizing, profiteering & trading of carbon is allowed, where secret models are used to deny scrutiny and peer review, and when the long term implications for Australian citizens are obscure… then, I believe this is a very pressing matter for all Australians. In this regard, One nation’s plan of introducing cost efficient citizen-initiated referenda would enhance democracy and allow for immediate engagement & intervention on such matters.
How can the people of Mackellar contact you and stay in touch with your campaign? Please include your website and social accounts if applicable.
X: @Ps_BradHayman
TikTok: bradhayman1nation
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brhayman/
Ethan Hrnjak, The Greens
Give us your elevator pitch – why should the people of Mackellar vote for you?
As the youngest Councillor on Northern Beaches Council, I know all too well the difficulties faced by our community, namely, the cost of living, housing and climate crises. This election, I’m the only candidate offering genuine, concrete and visionary solutions to these issues. Instead of marching to the neoliberal drumbeat of business tax cuts and deductible corporate lunches, I know that we need to make real, progressive policy in this country again if we want to counter the rise of the far-right. In a wealthy country like ours, everyone deserves access to the healthcare they need, housing they deserve and education that benefits the whole community. We will build hundreds of thousands of public, affordable and accessible homes, include mental and dental in Medicare, invest in publicly-owned renewable energy and make education free for all. By taxing the billionaires and making large corporations pay their fair share, real change is possible. We just have to vote for it.
What is your connection to the Mackellar area and tell us three places in the electorate that you love.
I’ve lived in Mackellar my entire life and feel very lucky to have grown up around the bush and the beach. My top three places are: 1. The Cascades 2. Lizard Rock 3. The Basin
What do you see as the key issues Australian people will consider when casting their vote in the Federal Election?
By taxing the billionaires and making large corporations pay their fair share, we can fund the inclusion of dental and mental health into Medicare, build hundreds of thousands of public, affordable and accessible homes, make preschool to PhD education completely free and invest in a publicly owned renewable energy revolution that will drive down energy costs, supercharge our transition to net-zero and drive our economy into the future. These policies are all possible and doable, we just need the political willpower and the guts to do it. Unfortunately, the biggest barrier to people-powered policy that addresses these issues are the vested interests in Parliament that dictate how public policy in this country is set. Billionaires and big corporations who donate to both major parties, the right-wing and Independents have unfair influence over our politicians. Politics can work for people and The Greens have a comprehensive plan to create a fairer system. We have a vision of a country where everyone has the opportunity of a fair go, where housing is affordable, healthcare is free and the environment is protected and respected – we’ve done it before in this country and can do it again. We can make material differences in people’s lives and have put forward possible, affordable and achievable policies to do exactly that. We just have to vote for it, because nothing changes if nothing changes.
If you were to introduce one bill to bring before parliament, what would it be?
I would love to include dental and mental health into Medicare, Australians shouldn’t have to pay through the teeth to see a dentist. This policy will make such a material improvement to cost of living and public health.
How can the people of Mackellar contact you and stay in touch with your campaign? Please include your website and social accounts if applicable.
Follow me on Instagram @ethanhrnjak
Amber Robertson, Trumpet of Patriots
Give us your elevator pitch – why should the people of Mackellar vote for you?
What is your connection to the Mackellar area and tell us three places in the electorate that you love.
What do you see as the key issues Australian people will consider when casting their vote in the Federal Election?
If you were to introduce one bill to bring before parliament, what would it be?
I would go after the Education Systems. For too long our school system has pushed far-left, woke ideology. It’s time to get the woke agenda out of our schools, stop trashing Australian history and the roles of our forefathers, and restore the rights of parents as the primary carers of their children.
How can the people of Mackellar contact you and stay in touch with your campaign? Please include your website and social accounts if applicable.
I can be contacted via email (Mackellar@trumpetofpatriots.org) and here is a link to the Trumpet of Patriots website https://trumpetofpatriots.org/
James Brown, Liberal
Give us your elevator pitch – why should the people of Mackellar vote for you?
I’m running to be the federal MP for Mackellar because we’ve got to get Australia back on track. Under Labor, our living standards have been destroyed and our national security put at risk. I’ve got the professional experience to deliver for Mackellar. I served for nearly a decade in the Australian army, leading our fearless soldiers on multiple deployments overseas. As President of the RSL and Chairman of Invictus Australia, I’ve been able to help veterans and their families in need. I’ll be a strong voice for the Northern Beaches in our federal parliament.
What is your connection to the Mackellar area and tell us three places in the electorate that you love.
I grew up and went to school in Collaroy. I’m now raising my two children locally. My dad has spent 65 years as a volunteer lifesaver at Long Reef. My family and I are passionate about our community, and I want to give back to it. Long Reef. It’s like nowhere else in Sydney, my family first moved there in 1917, and it is a very special place for us. Walking around the base of the headland is serene. Barrenjoey Head. My kids and I love to check in on the seal colony there. The kids yell out names, and when the seals turn their head, that lets us know what the Seal’s name is. Great Mackerel Beach. Mackerel is a hidden gem, a beautiful community, and a place of absolute freedom for children. We love being connected to the tides, the seasons, and Pittwater.
What do you see as the key issues Australian people will consider when casting their vote in the Federal Election?
Northern Beaches families are being hit hard by household bills. Rents and mortgages are expensive, and groceries and electricity are rising in cost every day. Childcare – when you can get it – is expensive. The situation has been exacerbated by the Northern Beaches Council raising rates; I was proud to campaign against this tone-deaf move. Only a Liberal Government can ease the burden on rising costs. We will cut fuel excise by 50% for 12 months and dump Labor’s car and ute tax. We’ll also support our hardworking, innovative small businesses by making permanent an instant asset write off worth $30,000, so they can continue to grow, invest and employ local people.
If you were to introduce one bill to bring before parliament, what would it be?
We’ve got to get increased funding to improve our roads and give our motorists safer and smoother journeys. The current Teal MP has been missing in action over the issue. My one bill would give the Northern Beaches the appropriate funding for road infrastructure that we sorely deserve. As a candidate, I’ve been able to get my Liberal colleagues to provide $250m in funding to finish Mona Vale Road. I will prioritise improvements for Wakehurst Parkway if I’m elected to our federal parliament.
How can the people of Mackellar contact you and stay in touch with your campaign?
James Brown (@jamesbrown4mackellar) • Instagram photos and videos
James Brown for Mackellar | Facebook
Mandeep Singh, Independent
Give us your elevator pitch – why should the people of Mackellar vote for you?
I’m Mandeep Singh Sunny a local small business owner, councillor, and proud Northern Beaches resident. I’m running for Mackellar because our community deserves a fresh, independent voice who listens, understands local issues, and delivers real results. I’ve built businesses, created local jobs, and supported our multicultural, hardworking community. I will fight for better healthcare, support for small businesses, safer roads, and real solutions for housing and cost-of-living pressures. I’m not tied to any party I answer only to you, the people of Mackellar. Vote 1 Mandeep Singh Sunny for community, fairness, and action.
What is your connection to the Mackellar area and tell us three places in the electorate that you love.
Mackellar is my home. I live here with my wife and son I run local cafés, and I serve our community as a Northern Beaches Councillor. I’ve built my life, my family, and my businesses right here I understand the challenges and opportunities our community faces because I live them every day. Three places I love in Mackellar: Mona Vale Beach – peaceful, family-friendly, and a great spot to unwind. Narrabeen Lagoon Trail – perfect for a walk or bike ride with friends and family. Palm Beach Headland – the views are incredible, and it reminds me how lucky we are to call this place home. Mackellar isn’t just where I live it’s where I belong.
What do you see as the key issues Australian people will consider when casting their vote in the Federal Election?
1. Cost of Living and Inflation The rising cost of essentials like groceries, fuel, and housing is a significant concern. Both major parties have proposed tax relief measures to address these pressures. However, some experts criticize these policies as short-term solutions that may not tackle underlying economic challenges.
2. Housing Affordability Housing remains a central issue, particularly for younger voters. The Labor Party has pledged to build 100,000 new homes for first-time buyers, while the Coalition proposes tax deductions on mortgage interest for new homes. Critics argue that these plans may increase demand without adequately addressing supply shortages.
3. Healthcare and Medicare Access to affordable We all want better outcomes for mental health it’s one of the biggest issues facing Australians today. But handing over $1 billion to a system with little transparency and known roots? That’s not smart governance that’s asking for more headlines, more waste, and less help for the people who really need it. Connect with organizations like the Save Mona Vale Hospital Community Action Group, which has been actively campaigning for the restoration of acute services at the hospital. Their mission includes advocating for a Level 3 Emergency Department and associated acute services.
If you were to introduce one bill to bring before parliament, what would it be?
I were to introduce one bill to Parliament, it would be the “Fair Go for Small Business Act.” This bill would focus on cutting red tape, reducing unfair taxes and council levies, and ensuring small businesses the heart of our economy get real support, not just lip service. It would include: Tax relief for family-run and local small businesses Stronger protections from unfair lease terms and skyrocketing rents Access to government contracts for small operators, not just the big end of town Support for apprenticeships and training to help fix the skills shortage As a small business owner myself, I’ve seen how hard people work just to survive. This bill would put everyday Australians first not the corporates, not the unions, not the bureaucrats. It’s time the voices of hardworking Australians are heard loud and clear in Canberra. Let hope for good
How can the people of Mackellar contact you and stay in touch with your campaign? Please include your website and social accounts if applicable.
I’d love to hear from the people of Mackellar — your voice is what drives my campaign. You can contact me and stay connected through the following: 📧 Email: sunny4pittwater@gmail.com 📱 Instagram: @Singh4pittwater 📘 Facebook: Mandeep Singh Sunny – Independent for Mackellar I’m also out in the community every week from markets to cafés to surf clubs so come say hello, share your concerns, or just have a yarn. Let’s build a stronger Mackellar — together.
Sophie Scamps, Community Independent (current member)
Give us your elevator pitch – why should the people of Mackellar vote for you?
Voting for me as a Community Independent means you’re voting to put our community’s views, values and needs first. As an Independent I don’t have to toe a party line, so I am free to always put the people of Mackellar first. For too long the people of Mackellar were ignored and taken for granted as a safe seat – that changed when Mackellar voted for a genuine Independent last election. Since then I’ve been working hard for our community and standing up for the issues that are important to us – including cost of living relief measures, fighting to make our hospital public again, greater support for small business, getting federal funding for our roads, pushing for more affordable housing on the Beaches so young families and key workers can stay here, and also protecting our local environment by ending the licence to drill for oil and gas off our coastline. If it matters to the people of Mackellar, it matters to me. I fight for constructive solutions, not just for the sake of it.
What is your connection to the Mackellar area and tell us three places in the electorate that you love.
I’ve called Mackellar home for the last 25 years. My husband and I have raised our 3 kids here and they’ve all attended local schools. We’ve stood on the sidelines of kids’ sport matches all across Mackellar and chatted to parents, and we’ve shopped locally for decades. My family is a genuine part of this community. We live and breathe it. I’ve also worked locally as a doctor for 20 years, firstly in Mona Vale Hospital with the geriatrics team then as an emergency doctor. I then worked for many years as a GP with Narrabeen Family Medical Practice – which gave me an even deeper understanding of local people, their needs and values. In terms of the places I love in Mackellar – well Mackellar has got to be one of the most beautiful places on the planet so it’s hard to choose. I love the bushwalks in Duffy’s Forest and West Head and the connection with our indigenous history. I’ve loved boating on Pittwater and exploring the coves and of course our beaches are unbeatable. Taylor’s Point was always a haven when I had young kids and I love the tranquility, beauty and proximity of Angophora Reserve.
What do you see as the key issues Australian people will consider when casting their vote in the Federal Election?
Australians are really feeling cost-of-living pain. Between rising interest rates, rents and energy bills; inflation and wage stagnation, people across the country including in Mackellar are struggling. I have pushed and voted for many different cost of living measures including cheaper childcare and medicines, making it cheaper to see your GP and energy bill relief. Housing affordability is also a huge issue this election. Even today when I was out and about speaking with locals – I met with several young families who had made the decision to move out of our area because, with a growing young family, they cannot afford to live here anymore. It is devastating to lose so many of our community members and key workers in this way and must be addressed with long term housing solutions. Unlike the Coalition, I voted in favour of all 3 of the bills to increase housing supply and affordability this term and will keep pushing for more. It is also disturbing to see empty shop fronts in shopping strips across the electorate. That’s why I have been calling strongly for far more support for small business including a $20,000 tax-free threshold for them, and a residential battery subsidy which would go a long way to easing energy prices as cheap electricity will be discharged back to the grid during the evening peaks The people of Mackellar also care deeply about our beautiful environment – our beaches, waterways, and bush and parklands. We don’t want to see sea walls up and down our coastline or gas rigs off our shores. Instead we want real action to halt and reverse environmental destruction, species extinction and climate change.
If you were to introduce one bill to bring before parliament, what would it be?
So many of the converging crises we’re facing right now – the climate catastrophe, the housing crisis, mental ill health epidemic, and the destruction of our environment– have been decades in the making, and are the result of short term decision-making and policies that have failed to address them. What we need is long term solutions, not short term Bandaid fixes. And so, in February I introduced a bill called the Wellbeing of Future Generations Bill. The Bill calls for 2 main things – a national conversation to create a vision for our nation – what type of country we want to hand down to our children. And secondly, it would embed a framework for collaborative, long term policy making in Australia. This Bill is based on the experience of Wales, and other countries, where a similar Act has been law since 2015. https://www.gov.wales/well-being-of-future-generations-wales If passed, my Bill would ensure integrated decision making, so that politicians, public bodies and departments work together to find solutions rather, than as often happens, at odds with each other. The Bill is based on the principal that the needs of the present generation should be met without compromising the capacity of future generations to meet their needs. This bill would help end the short termism that is the root cause of so many of the current problems we face. https://www.sophiescamps.com.au/future_generations_bill_2025
How can the people of Mackellar contact you and stay in touch with your campaign? Please include your website and social accounts if applicable.
Sign up for a newsletter – Subscribe – Dr Sophie Scamps
Instagram – drsophie4mackellar
Jeffrey Quinn, Australian Labor Party
Give us your elevator pitch – why should the people of Mackellar vote for you?
I’m a lifelong Mackellar local with a track record of service and a caring, deep commitment to our community. I’m standing for Labor because only a strong, stable government can deliver the infrastructure, healthcare, education, and environmental protection our region deserves. I will fight to bring better, more accessible health services to the Northern Beaches, work with the state and local governments on infrastructure to continue upgrades to Mona Vale Road and Wakehurst Parkway, advocate for an increase in the availability of indoor sporting facilities, develop long-term plans for surf lifesaving clubs, and ensure clean energy and housing policies meet the needs of all generations. I will work for the people, not rule over them. This campaign is about building a fairer, safer, more sustainable Mackellar for all, without hubris or ego.
What is your connection to the Mackellar area and tell us three places in the electorate that you love.
I’ve lived in Mackellar all my life—66 years and counting. I went to school here, raised my family here, and built a small business that’s helped thousands of local students through education. My family has roots in this place going back before the Federation.
Three places I love (almost impossible to list only three):
-
Bongin Bongin Beach – where I swim sometimes in the mornings. It’s more the early morning swimmers than the place – an eclectic bunch of wonderful characters.
-
West Head Lookout – at dawn, the view over Barrenjoey, the magnificent Broken Bay and Pittwater
-
North Narrabeen Rock Pool – where I learnt to swim.
What do you see as the key issues Australian people will consider when casting their vote in the Federal Election?
- Access to public healthcare, especially hospitals and bulk billing
- Cost of living pressures and affordable housing
- Climate action and clean energy
- Infrastructure delivery, especially safer roads and better public transport
Voters are looking for leadership that listens, acts, and plans for the long term.
If you were to introduce one bill to bring before parliament, what would it be?
If there was one bill I’d like to consider, it would be focused on how we can improve access to high quality, safe healthcare in our communities. The rollout of the Medicare Urgent Care Clinics has been a huge success so far, and I’m proud of our commitment to open one in Dee Why. Whether it be improvements to local public hospitals, urgent care clinics, mental health support or investments in women’s health, I’m deeply committed to ensuring everyone has access to the same level of healthcare no matter the postcode.
How can the people of Mackellar contact you and stay in touch with your campaign? Please include your website and social accounts if applicable.
Website: https://www.alp.org.
Email: Jeffrey.Quinn@nswlabor.
Facebook: https://www.
Instagram: @jeffquinn4mackella
Justin Addison, Libertarian
Answers not yet received.
