Liberal and Labor candidates have officially launched their campaigns in Lindsay, as this year’s Federal Election edges closer.
Sitting Liberal MP Melissa McIntosh is preparing to contest her third Federal Election after she successfully won the seat in 2019 and retained it in 2022.
“Only a Dutton-led Coalition government will get Australia back on track,” she said at her local campaign launch last week.
McIntosh pointed the finger at Labor, claiming promises have been broken during Anthony Albanese’s first term.
“On cost-of-living, Labor promised families would see their electricity bills reduce by $275, but instead, households and businesses are being hit with skyrocketing bills and paying over $1,000 more,” she said.
“Our community deserves better, and only the Coalition will take real action to bring down power prices by unlocking more gas into the domestic market to reduce prices along with 24/7 baseload nuclear power.”
McIntosh said she will focus on community needs and infrastructure during her campaign.
“On local infrastructure, I will continue to push tooth and nail to get Dunheved Road upgraded. Council has sat on this funding for years now and the project is more than two years behind schedule. This is despite the Labor Party at the 2022 election promising to fast track the project,” McIntosh said.
“Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) is a game-changer for our region, bringing jobs, infrastructure and new opportunities for western Sydney. I’ve backed this project from the start, but I know it must work for our community. That’s why I’m committed to ensuring locals have a real voice in the consultation process on flight paths, because we deserve a fair and balanced approach that puts our community first.
“Western Sydney small businesses are suffering. Our region has some of the highest rates of business closures which is impacting jobs and families. While Labor makes it harder for businesses to grow and employ more Australians, we’re committed to cutting red tape, reducing costs and supporting those who drive our local economy. Our local manufacturers are crying out for cheaper energy to not send their business and jobs offshore.”
Recently endorsed Labor candidate and current Penrith City Councillor Hollie McLean also recently launched her campaign, saying she is looking forward to connecting with the community.
“In just a few weeks of campaigning, I’ve spoken to so many people about a real choice in this election. Residents have overwhelmingly shared that they are thinking more and more about where their vote will go,” McLean said.
“This election is about building Australia’s future – our future – and it must be done with economic stability, which this government has successfully delivered.
“This stability has allowed the government to commit up to $8.6 billion to ensure doctor visits are fully bulk-billed, over $4 billion to fully fund NSW public schools, and to secure permanent Fee-Free TAFE. This ensures we have the builders to construct our homes, the nurses to care for our families, and the aged care workers to support our elderly.
“This election is about the future we want to see for our families – one with fully funded education and healthcare or one that sees it remain difficult to find or afford a doctor’s visit, and decide your future career based on whether or not you can afford to go to TAFE or university.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has yet to announce the Federal Election, but it is expected to be held on May 3, 10 or 17.
Emily Chate
Emily Chate joined The Western Weekender in 2024, and covers local news - primarily courts and politics. A graduate of the University of Wollongong, Emily has contributed to The Daily Telegraph and worked as a freelance journalist.