Kylea shares her week on the campaign trail
Week 20: Small individual gestures spark important community discussions
This past month we’ve seen a number of “small” individual gestures spark important community discussions. Whether it was Grace Tame’s refusal to smile in the presence of the Prime Minister, or Dylan Alcott declaring “he loves his disability”, ordinary people like you and I have made statements that call our system to account. These actions are in stark contrast to the lack of bold and strong leadership from our Federal Government.
In my own case, my small action of defiance – that is standing as North Sydney’s Independent candidate – hasn’t been prompted by a desire to pursue a career in politics. For the last 35 years, while running a number of very successful business, I’ve also worked to constantly push for positive social change. For me, it’s always been about the work that has needed to be done – not a party doctrine or political ambition. Coming from outside the system enables me to speak truth to power, and it is this opportunity that excites me.
With a by-election in the state seat of Willoughby coming next week, it’s been fantastic to see others take their own stands for our community.
What was meant to be a one-horse race, with the LNP nominating a replacement for Gladys Berejiklian, has become a field of 7 candidates, of whom I’ve personally seen 4 actively seeking to engage in meaningful conversations with the community. These include candidates for the Greens, the REASON party, the Sustainability Party, and independent candidate Larissa Penn for Willoughby.
Importantly, each of these 4 have been long-term residents of our area and are currently involved in advocating for positive changes for our community, by working in council or actively making representations for our community for issues like Dying with Dignity and Stopping the Tunnels. In contrast, the candidate nominated by the LNP doesn’t currently live in the seat, and is known for supporting the tunnel projects and fossil fuels.
At the end of the day, as with any election, I think what’s important is that we take the time to consciously decide how we want to be represented as a community at state government level. The next step then is to choose who we think is best placed to represent us in a way that is consistent with that desire. The decision literally is in our hands.
As always, let’s be the change we want to see.
KT
Recent blog posts
Week 35: A message from Kylea on election eve...
May 20, 2022
It's been an incredible 35 weeks since we embarked on this adventure to have an Independent voice for our community elected to federal parliament.
Week 34: This week will decide our future
May 13, 2022
This is it, North Sydney — the final week that will shape Australian politics for the next three years and beyond. If you want a strong, Independent voice for our community in parliament, now is the time to use your voice to advocate for change.
Week 33: Why we need more reason and consensus, and less grandstanding
May 06, 2022
Housing affordability is one of our society’s most pressing issues, but has unfortunately — and predictably — become overly politicised as Election Day nears.
Week 32: Support for the arts and an event bonanza
April 29, 2022
Many in our community believe that Australia's arts sector needs more targeted, generous support - including for the SBS and ABC.
Week 31: Thinking of our Anzacs and those affected by war
April 22, 2022
This weekend, we commemorate our Anzacs, who so bravely served our nation.
Week 30: My plan for cleaner, cheaper transport
April 15, 2022
This week, I announced my plan to bring to Parliament a Cheaper, Cleaner Transport Bill to reduce pollution from our cars. I've consulted extensively with policy, industry experts and consumer groups to develop this plan, which will align Australia with international standards, and bring us a little closer to meeting our emissions reduction goals.
10am Every Friday
Kylea's newsletter hits the inboxes of people right across our electorate of North Sydney. Stay up to date with Kylea's plans and progress as she tells us about her week speaking with people in our community. We'll also highlight the latest campaign events and initiatives to get involved with.