Independent candidate for Monash, Deb Leonard, kicked off the final sprint to election day with a campaign launch event in Warragul on Sunday (April 6).
The event, held at Oak's at Logan Park, and in front of an enthusiastic crowd, Leonard shared her vision for putting Monash first and delivering real results.
“With just 27 days until we could see the outcome of all our hard work over the past eight months and beyond," Leonard told the crowd.
“People are excited about what an independent voice can deliver for our communities.
“At the 2022 election, people were already talking about the costs of living and housing crisis in our electorate. We were already on this downward spiral under the Liberal government, and the Labor government hasn’t done much to pull us off either. We are hearing politicians talking about getting Australia 'Back on track' – but they neglect to acknowledge that they are the ones that sent us off the track in the first place," she said.
“We can’t keep voting the same way and expect a different result. This election, our community is standing up and demanding better. I am willing to deal with the critical issues, and I will work with the community to find the best solutions.”
Political scientist, Dr Ann Capling, campaign director for the successful 2022 Kooyong campaign, joined the event as a special guest, sharing insights from that historic win. Her message was clear: the same community-powered movement that unseated the Treasurer in Kooyong can succeed in Monash.
Following the official program, over 50 dedicated volunteers hit the streets of Warragul for a Day of Action. In just a few hours, they knocked on over 700 doors, having conversations with local residents about the issues that matter most to them.
Leonard said the campaign launch marked the beginning of an intensive final push to connect with as many voters as possible before election day.
“We're taking nothing for granted,” she said. “Our volunteers will be out in force every day, listening to the community and sharing our positive vision for Monash. People are telling me they’re sick of being ignored by the major parties and we need a change."
Leonard has released her policies on costs of living, housing, funding for infrastructure, roads, NDIS, health & aged care, integrity in politics, environment and investment in regional economies.
Funding wise, Leonard pointed out how Monash has been ignored as a safe Liberal seat, and will fight for federal funding for West Gippsland Hospital, roads, and sporting club upgrades.