Youth, public transport and rates big Gembrook issues
YOUTH issues, public transport and council rates are all looming large as key issues in the fight for Gembrook in the state election on November 29.
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YOUTH issues, public transport and council rates are all looming large as key issues in the fight for Gembrook in the state election on November 29.
Gembrook Liberal MP Brad Battin, who holds the seat with an 8.8 per cent margin, flagged youth suicide as a major concern, while Greens candidate Michael Schilling said he would push for more spending on TAFE education.
Mr Battin said suicide and the mental health of young people was one of the most frequently raised problems.
“It’s been raised with me constantly during the last four years and it’s something that clearly needs attention,” Mr Battin said.
WHAT IS YOUR MAJOR GEMBROOK ELECTION ISSUE? TELL US BELOW
Mr Schilling said TAFE cuts were hurting youth opportunities.
“We need to replace the skills that have been cut from TAFE funding. We need to create jobs in Dandenong that people in this electorate can get to, including jobs in renewable energy,” Mr Schilling said.
Labor candidate Collin Ross said council rates were a major problem that would be tackled by his party’s plan to cap future rises at CPI levels.
“If we had that policy in place 11 years ago we would be conservatively $600-$700 better off than we now are,” Mr Ross said.
Independent candidate Damian Heffernan shares Mr Ross’ interest in local government.
“I’m interested in council,” Mr Heffernan said.
“I’d say that’s the greatest issue.”
Australian Country Alliance candidate Alan Stoops wants action to reduce the bushfire risk and has the Greens in his sights.
“They have never been held to account for Black Saturday,” Mr Stoops said.
Rise Up Australia candidate Fergie Verdan wants better protection for Australian industry and Australian Christians’ Simon Beard wants to focus on abortion rules.