Voices of Corangamite seeks election candidate

VOICES of Corangamite is calling for volunteers and potential candidates to contest the seat at the coming federal election.

The group was formed in early 2021 by locals from Geelong and the Bellarine who describe themselves as being fed up with the state of federal politics.

“We have been inspired by similar groups that have sprung up across the country, with community-based independents running – and winning – in seats nationwide,” spokesperson Kate Lockhart said.

“We want Geelong and the Bellarine to be part of this movement that is reviving democracy in Australia and changing the way politics works. We’re in this to win it.”

A date for the federal election has not yet been set, but the latest day a typical simultaneous half-Senate and House of Representatives election can take place is May 17.

The Voices movement, which began in the Victorian seat of Indi in 2012, states it aims to give voters more choice beyond the two-party system and a stronger voice in how they are represented.

In recent years, the electorate of Corangamite has been represented by the Liberals’ Stewart McArthur (1984-2007), Labor’s Darren Cheeseman (2007-2013), the Liberals’ Sarah Henderson (2013-2019) and Labor’s Libby Coker (2019-present).

“It’s time for change,” Ms Lockhart said.

She encouraged people in the Surf Coast, Bellarine Peninsula, and Geelong to step up and support “local, inclusive, community-based politics built on honesty and integrity”.

Voices of Corangamite have listed five election priorities:

• Integrity in politics – decisions that affect us all should be based on the quality of the arguments – not who has the deepest pockets
• Respect for women and communities – we want a Parliament, and a society, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect
• Fairness – ensuring no one is left behind. Building better, more affordable housing. Creating real, skilled, and secure jobs, while ensuring those in need get the right support
• Action on climate change – acting locally to influence nationally. Supporting those who need it through the clean energy transition, and
• Rejecting wrong energy decisions – no nuclear, no gas drilling in the Otways, no gas terminal in Corio Bay, and no incinerator at Lara.

“Best-case scenario? Our independent wins and holds a crucial crossbench seat in a minority government, giving our community real influence,” Ms Lockhart said.

“Worst-case scenario? We send a message that locals won’t be taken for granted and shake up the two-party stranglehold on the Bellarine and Surf Coast.

“Researchers will tell you that it is cost of living that is on top of voters’ minds. True, but it was issues of environment, integrity, and equity that swung votes at the last election, and those issues have only become even more important for us to deal with in today’s world.”

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