Push for independent candidate in Monash

A group of people has formed informally to push the case for an independent to be elected in the Monash electorate at next year’s federal election.

Calling itself Voices for Monash the group said it wanted the electorate’s member to be more accountable to the community and call the major political parties to account.

Spokesperson Tony Wolfe said a core group had been meeting for several months and was keen for more people to get involved in seeking an independent member.

He envisages a community forum to be held to decide on “the right independent candidate.”

However, Mr Wolfe pointed out that Voices for Monash would not become a political party, nor would it be fundraising in support of a candidate.

“We want to support an independent that reflects the values of the group, respects the electorate’s diversity and is committed to represent and be accountable to people in Monash”.

Mr Wolfe said the group was looking to encourage a candidate that is focused on “urgent energy transition, cultural, age and gender equality, transparency, integrity and recognition of First Nations people”.

According to Mr Wolfe Voices of Monash is just one of numerous community groups springing up around Australia because of their belief that two-party system is failing democracy in Australia.

“An informed and larger crossbench could see more legislation passed that puts the good of the nation ahead of party political self-interest”.

Monash is a very diverse community with many sections under represented in parliament, he claimed.

The seat is currently held for the Liberal Party by Russell Broadbent.

In the most recent election in 2019 Mr Broadbent was elected among seven candidates, two of which were independents.

Anybody interested in nominating as an independent or knows of a potential suitable candidate can contact Mr Wolfe on 0418 589 533.

More information is also available on the website www.voicesformonash.org or on Facebook at https:///www.facebook.com/ForMonash