Employment a key Hastings election issue

EMPLOYMENT is shaping up as the key issue for candidates standing for Hastings at the November 29 state election.

Jobs on-line

EMPLOYMENT is shaping up as the key issue for candidates standing for Hastings at the November 29 state election.

Seven candidates have nominated for the seat of Hastings, made up of the major parties, two independents and representatives from the Australian Country Alliance, Rise Up Australia and the Greens.

Hastings state Liberal MP Neale Burgess said it was all about jobs.

“This electorate has been doing it tough for a long time,” Mr Burgess said.

“But the Port of Hastings will bring thousands of jobs, it’s a huge opportunity for the region.”

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Labor candidate Steve Hosking said it was crucial to find opportunities for jobs, such as developing tourism for the area and working with BlueScope Western Port.

“Employment has been an issue for a long time, since I was a kid growing up in the area and it’s crucial to finding solutions to a range of other issues like crime and domestic violence,” Mr Hosking said.

Greens candidate Derek Fagan said he was standing against the proposed port expansion, but would like to see more jobs in areas like the disability sector.

“There are a lot of opportunities for employment within that sector, if the right resources are provided,” Mr Fagan said.

Australian Country Alliance candidate Scot Leslie, Rise Up Australia candidate Colin Robertson and independent candidates Paul Madigan and Robert Andersson are also standing for election.