Star News asked the Holt candidates three questions ahead of the Federal Election on Saturday 18 May. Here are the responses received:
Anthony Byrne, Labor
What are your top three priorities for the area?
I am asking for your support because as the Labor Member for Holt I am committed to:
• Invest $26.9 million extra in local schools.
• Invest $22.4 million into Casey Hospital.
• Upgrade Thompsons Rd and Narre Warren – Cranbourne Rd.
What’s your personal connection to the electorate?
For over 22 years I have lived in this area. I have raised my kids here like many other parents. I have observed the incredible growth of this area in that time. I have always advocated for increased social infrastructure for our region. This means we need to invest in local Schools, local Hospitals, local roads, and local Mobile Phone Towers for better coverage. We also need to invest in Child Care, Medicare, Headspace, NDIS and Aged Care to improve Government Services.
Why do you want stay on the MP for Holt?
I am seeking re-election because there is so much more to do for our region. I wish to continue to deliver for our rapidly growing community but also continue my work to protect our national security. Over the last six years I have been Deputy Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security, and I have been combating terrorism, combating hostile foreign influence, and working with Victoria Police to combat local gang violence and home invasions.
Jennifer Van Den Broek, Liberal
What are your top three priorities for the area?
1. Support for families:
Seventy-five thousand locals get tax relief in 2018-19. Holt doesn’t need Labor’s higher taxes, higher rents and higher living costs. Locals benefit from our economic management, and fear Labor’s recklessness.
2. Infrastructure investment:
Holt hasn’t seen much infrastructure in 39 years under Labor. The Coalition is investing $100 billion in infrastructure, including the $4 billion Urban Congestion Fund. I’ll ensure Holt gets plenty.
3. Support for small businesses:
Backing small business builds a strong economy and ensures investment in health, education and infrastructure. Over 16,000 Holt small and medium businesses benefit from our tax relief, helping them employ more locals. Bill Shorten’s $387 billion tax scheme won’t.
What’s your personal connection to the electorate?
I’ve lived in Cranbourne, Hampton Park and Lynbrook for 21 years and raised my family here. I’m active in the community. My husband’s family business is in Cranbourne, and working for a growing business myself, I understand the benefits a strong economy delivers Holt. I want to give back to the community.
Why do you want to be an MP?
I’ll be a strong voice for Holt, bringing energy, compassion and fresh ideas. Anthony Byrne is prioritising Bill Shorten’s $387 billion tax grab over locals. I’ll fight for our community, and deliver a strong economy and secure future.
Candidates Jess Wheelock of the Greens, and Jatinder Singh of the United Australia Party did not respond to the survey by deadline.
