Independents for Canberra is today announcing its lead candidates to contest the 2024 ACT Election in the electorate of Yerrabi.
Sneha KC and David Pollard have been formally endorsed to run as Independents for Canberra candidates.
David Pollard runs a small business working in software development, has been an active participant in community associations in Gungahlin and ran as an independent in two previous ACT elections. He grew up in Kaleen before moving to Palmerston then settling down in Crace with his wife and two children.
Mr Pollard said the emergence of Independents for Canberra had reaffirmed his belief that a strong crossbench was wanted and needed in the ACT.
“I’ve campaigned as an independent before because I could see something was missing from our Assembly,” Mr Pollard said.
“We need an independent crossbench to elevate the quality of our politics and improve the outcomes we’re seeing across our community.
“Independents for Canberra has the same principles I’ve already campaigned on, so it was a simple choice to join forces.
“I meet so many good people doing good things in their community – people who could be doing great things if given the right support by the government.
“It really is time for change, but until now there hasn’t been a viable change on offer for Canberrans. An independent crossbench holding the major parties to a higher standard can be that change.
“I want to see Canberra vastly improve our outcomes in health, education, and housing affordability. We should be leading the nation.”
Sneha KC is a registered nurse who works for the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and has been studying public policy at the University of Canberra. She migrated to Canberra from Nepal in 2011 and lives in Ngunnawal.
Ms KC said her vision for Yerrabi was one of unity and progress, where every resident feels valued and empowered.
“I believe that addressing the disengagement in our community is key to solving many of our local issues and creating a more connected Yerrabi,” Ms KC said.
“Building stronger community engagement across the ACT involves bridging the gap between our busy young families and our elderly residents.
“I have been a registered nurse in Canberra for over a decade, witnessing firsthand the struggles and triumphs of our community.
“My decision to run for office is motivated by having seen Canberrans waiting in crowded emergency rooms for hours, seniors lacking essential support to live a quality life, members of our community suffering gender-based violence, and the stark reality of homelessness and the mental health crisis.
“These experiences have fuelled my determination to be a voice for those who’ve been forgotten.
“Urgent action is needed to address the current system’s failures. I will fight for a Canberra that meets the needs of all its residents and supports everyone to thrive."
The leader of the group, Thomas Emerson, said Independents for Canberra offered a platform for people from all different walks of life to come together and push for change.
“We’re excited to have attracted a diverse group of high-calibre Canberrans from a wide range of different backgrounds who are all saying the same thing: we need independents to give our communities a voice in the Legislative Assembly,” said Mr Emerson.
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