MEET THE CANDIDATES Scott Turner, McPherson, Greens
Candidate: Scott Turner Electorate: McPherson Party: Queensland Greens
What suburb do you live in?
Elanora (surrounded by trees with a dog and some bee hives). I am fortunate to receive visits from koalas and wallabies, but could do with a better bus service.
Why are you running?
I’m running to take on the many challenges and opportunities the southern Gold Coast is facing, like growth, globalisation, the digital economy and climate change. I believe we need a representative who doesn’t take donations from corporations, because politicians should work for the needs of the people, not vested interests that destroy our way of life.
What political experience do you have?
I’ve volunteered with the Greens for some time. I was the Greens candidate for Fadden in the 2019 federal election and Mudgeeraba in the 2020 Queensland state election.
Outside politics, what life and
work experience do you have?
I grew up here and went to Palm Beach-Currumbin State High. I began my career in scientific research and have since worked in administration in the areas of healthcare, crisis accommodation, mental health and education and as a customer service agent for TransLink.
What, in your opinion, is the No.1 issue facing voters in your electorate?
Affordable housing is No.1. Major party policies have driven housing costs up – it’s easier to buy your fifth home than your first, and a tight rental market is driving too many people into poverty and even homelessness.
If elected, what will be your priority when you enter the new parliament?
I’ll fight for affordable housing for everyone. The Greens’ fully costed housing policies include building one million affordable social homes across Australia over the next 20 years, a shared ownership scheme so first-home buyers can own a home for $300,000, a cap on rent increases, ending no-grounds evictions and banning rent bidding.