Inspired by the success of community independents at the last federal election, a group of passionate Canberrans is forming a new political force to find and support such candidates into the ACT Legislative Assembly under the name ‘Independents for Canberra’.
The group is responding to community sentiment that Territorians aren’t satisfied with the current Labor-Greens Government and don’t see the Liberals as a viable alternative.
The new party will be launched at a public town hall event on February 11 at the RUC in Turner with Kate Chaney MP, the ACT’s first independent Senator, David Pocock, and former independent ACT MLA Michael Moore attending to speak about the community independent movement and the importance of a higher standard of political representation across the country.
The ‘party of independents’ is being established by Canberra locals, Thomas Emerson and Clare Carnell.
Thomas Emerson works as an adviser to Senator Pocock and said he is putting his hand up as a candidate having listened to community calls for change.
“I’ve been speaking with community leaders representing diverse groups of people across the ACT and there’s a big appetite for a community-led independent movement at this year’s election,” Mr Emerson said.
“This government has been in power for 22 years. More community involvement in how decisions are made is well overdue.
“Canberrans want change and we deserve better representation. It’s time to shift the balance of power in the ACT.”
Local barrister and ANU law lecturer, Clare Carnell, said her goal is to support competent candidates who are ready to deliver for the ACT.
”We want candidates who have never considered entering politics – that's a good thing! We want fresh perspectives, not career politicians,” Ms Carnell said.
“There are talented people all across the ACT who see Canberra’s potential and would make fantastic MLAs.
“It’s time to bring them together and get them elected.
“If you're committed, capable, and have integrity in spades, we want you.”
Independents for Canberra is calling for supporters, volunteers, candidate nominations and RSVPs for its first town hall through the party’s website: www.independentsforcanberra.com.
Anyone who cares about the future of the ACT and wants to help drive positive change is being invited to join the movement.
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