By Steph Allen

Independent candidate for Calare, Kate Hook looked at what the future held for her children, and was worried.

“After raising four children, I’m concerned about the future they are facing, and that the state of politics in Australia currently is not fit for purpose to deal with our biggest challenges and to make the most of our great opportunities,” she said.

“I can no longer stand on the sideline and watch yet another electoral cycle of inaction.

“As an independent, I am free to put communities and truth first, without the interference of a party structure.”

The Borenore local has joined the campaign trail against sitting MP, Andrew Gee, with her main focus ensuring Calare is no longer “taken for granted as a ‘safe seat’”.

“I want to see trust restored in our political leaders after years of poor leadership, and poor performance by the government in many areas of critical importance for our health, well-being, economy and environment,” Ms Hook said.

“I would ensure that party politics, unduly influenced by big donors, does not get in the way of good, evidence-based policy.”

Looking towards nationwide changes in politics, Ms Hook cited the project “Voices for Calare” which provides citizens with a platform to voice concerns via: “kitchen table conversations”.

“For many, this was the first time they had the opportunity to talk about politics or about issues that matter to them,” she said.

“I've continued this in my campaign, travelling to different towns and villages and listening to the people who live there.

“If we can have more independents in parliament, who are there to truly represent their communities, respect and consider their opinions, who can judge each issue on its merits and constantly communicate their position back to their voters, people will feel more connected to their representative and have more certainty about the political environment as it affects them.”

Some of the issues Ms Hook has become aware of include strong regional economies, regional health care access, climate management and planning that looks after farmers, rivers, and funded and equitable education opportunities.

What makes Ms Hook the right fit for the job? According to her, her track record of caring for the community, bringing people together and understanding community issues speaks for itself.

“What needs to change in politics is truth, evidence and community needs coming first, before a politician’s own career, party factions and the need to follow a party line,” she said.

“I have not been a typical ‘career politician’... but bring real-life experience to the role.

“As a female candidate, I want to inspire younger women and girls to consider representing their communities.

“We need to bring more gender equity to the parliament, so more female candidates being elected as representatives will be a great start.”