Forum flips the script on election events

IN an innovative twist on election campaigning, local groups will lead the Candidates Meet the Community Forum in Murwillumbah on Wednesday, April 16.

Two candidates for the federal seat of Richmond — One Nation’s Ian Mye and the Greens’ Mandy Nolan — are confirmed to be taking part in the event.

Instead of politicians speaking to constituents, candidates are invited to listen and collaborate with community members in a structured, deliberative democratic process.

Sponsored by 350 Australia and hosted by Common Future Collective, the forum was developed alongside over 20 organisations, including the Climate Justice Alliance Northern Rivers, Rising Tide, Doctors for the Environment, Oxfam Australia, Well Grounded Building, Imagine Northern Rivers, Mullum Cares, Save Wallum Inc, House You, It Takes a Town and many others.

Over 100 community members will engage in deep discussions about critical local issues led by experienced facilitators Chels Hood Withey, Tim Hollo, Moss Cluney, and Carmen Stewart about housing, climate and energy, cost of living, healthcare, education, and disaster recovery.

350 Australia organiser Chels Hood Withey said at a time of upheaval, the collective was reimagining how democracy can work.

“This forum is about empowering community members to directly shape the policies that will impact their lives, especially in critical areas like housing and climate resilience,” she said.

Tim Hollo, Executive Director of The Green Institute, said people’s faith in politicians was slipping.

“It’s time we flipped the old model of election events, where candidates are on a stage in front of an audience, literally talking down to the voters as they make declarations and fight amongst themselves in an adversarial battle,” Hollo said.

Moss Cluney, advocate for climate justice, queer rights, and youth empowerment with the Climate Justice Alliance, said the most vulnerable communities were shut out of decisions that shaped their lives.

“We’re handed a single vote and told that’s enough, while policies are made without us,” Cluney said.

“It’s no surprise people feel disillusioned and disconnected from politics.”

“We need real spaces where those of us historically silenced can speak up, be heard, and lead.

“This is what true deliberative democracy looks like – bold, inclusive, and powered by the people.”