Who would Jessie support if there is a hung Parliament?  What commitments would Jessie want to see from Labor or the Coalition before supporting either to form a minority government?

Answer

If elected and in the case of minority Government, if either side of politics came to me seeking my vote of confidence and supply I would look to support the Party that best aligns with the positions and policies that I have heard are of key importance to the people of Bean. At this point, Labor policies are more closely aligned. For my support, I would seek urgent action on the following key issues:  

  1. Climate change: We need stronger action on climate change, stronger environmental protections, and more emphasis on the renewable energy transition. Climate change underpins many of the cost of living issues in our country, and also our national security.  It is vital we follow the science and not corporate and mining interests. In addition, I recognise the expertise and independence of the CSIRO analysis of nuclear technology in the Australian context; they state it is not a viable option in this country. Therefore, I will not support nuclear power in the form proposed by the LNP. If the expert analysis changes I will review that advice. 
  2. Housing:  Housing reform must be bolder and braver - not just increasing supply but putting everything on the table, including tax reform, to solve housing affordability through a staged approach. 
  3. APS:  I support a strong and independent public service. Outsourcing the public service to private contractors, as occurred under the LNP, has been financially costly – poor value for money –  and has undermined the strength of the APS.  For this reason I am unable to support the proposed blanket reduction of 36,000 public servants, which would also impact trades and business in Canberra. This is not negotiable. I support valid system changes that result in genuine efficiency gains but do not support ideological attacks on the public service. I am campaigning on greater transparency and integrity in Government. I will not support the Coalition if they won’t support Canberra.
  4. Other urgent reforms: 
  • Getting the gambling advertising bans passed.
  • Passing the Nature Positive (Environmental Protection Australia) Bill.