She worked at Maccas to pay her way through high school, then danced professionally to finish a master’s degree. Rachel Payne was also employed by the Family Court and Centrelink before serving a ‘political apprenticeship’ with Fiona Patten. Now the Victorian MP has a Chelsea base – her electoral office officially opened on Thursday, May 23.
“I think more people with real life experiences are needed in politics,” said the Representative for South-East Melbourne.”
“You meet a lot of people in parliament from privileged backgrounds, who believe they were born to rule. I was educated in state schools, my parents were working people and I’ve always had to pay my way.”
Rachel was elected to the Victorian upper house as a member of the Legalise Cannabis Party.
“Surveys consistently show that most Australians want this plant legalised, the latest by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare found more than 80 per cent of Australians believe that personal use of cannabis should no longer be a criminal offence, but while I’m passionate about this, my interests are in no way limited to just one reform.”
Rachel, who lives a short drive south of her electoral office with her partner, said she hoped locals would walk through the doors to meet her and the three electoral staff members based in Chelsea.
“I have a strong sense of justice and am particularly concerned about young people – those who are just finding their way. When governments invest in youth, they’re investing in the future and giving our young people real opportunities,” Rachel said.
“That’s why I believe in law making that has equity at its heart. Whether it be youth justice, anti-vilification, women’s health or housing – I want to see our state become a place where everyone has an equal opportunity to fulfil their potential.”
“But as a south-east local, you are best placed to tell me what you need to live well and what changes are necessary.”
“I’m always keen to learn more about how I can support south-eastern residents from all walks of life, and the broader community. I’m on the lookout for service gaps and it’s also great to hear what is working well.”
Rachel was born in Newcastle, New South Wales and is the youngest of five.
“My Dad worked as a gyprock plasterer and Mum was a carer and did cleaning jobs. They also took in boarders to get by and were foster carers for a period. It was a busy home and not always a positive environment.”
“By the time I was 16, it was obvious I’d do better living independently. I couch-surfed for a while before renting a room in a share-house. I worked at McDonalds to pay the rent and finish school. It was a bit of a juggle. I was lucky to get into uni.”
“While studying at university, I worked in bars and as a burlesque dancer and came up with this cheeky stage character called Freckles Blue. I love performing and have danced in Paris and London.”
“But politics was my calling. I think it’s so important that our politicians look like our society – a kaleidoscope where we all feel represented.”
“I’m here to serve working people. Parliament should not be an echo chamber of the fortunate and financially blessed. We need to hear from people who have struggled and face cost of living pressures. That’s who I go to work for every day.”
Rachel’s office is located at 384a Nepean Highway Chelsea.
