1.    When and why did you decide to become a politician?
I didn’t. I have always liked to stand up for what I believe in, and the opportunity just arose this time around that ‘standing up’ would be in the form of being a federal candidate.

2.    What do you think are the issues that matter to young people?
I think young people realise that they face individual challenges as well as the Nation facing national challenges. Our environment being sustainable into the future is an issue that the young understand far better than the older generation. Working smarter, not harder. Being allowed to be creative with new ideas and solutions rather than just ‘band aid’ fixes, which so often are applied by both politicians and organisational management everywhere.

3.    How do you plan to address these issues?
Get more women into politics. Get more youth into politics. Get more independents into politics. Get balanced decision making in politics – that is decisions based not just on economy or business but sustainability, humanity and healthy, happy futures for all.

4.    How do you engage with young people to find out what issues matter to them?
I am a mother and spend most of my time with other mothers. Once you have children your beliefs and ideals of what matters seem to change. I listen to other mothers – young and old to find out what they want, and what they want for their children.

5.    What did you care about when you were a young voter?
Women having equality in the work force and in society. I still want this now.

6.    What is your opinion of young people in Australia?
Wow – what a lot of untapped potential.

7.    How do you think our political system can better engage with younger voters?
Incentives for youth to enter politics and to be listened to by sitting government.

8.    What are the key long-term challenges facing Australia?
Building a humane and just society that is based on concern for others and the environment, rather than being based on profit building.

9.    If you could change one thing about Australia what would it be?
A better start for our children. Gentler birthing practices and more fun at school instead of a focus on academics. Fostering creativity and individuality, compassion and acceptance instead of academic, sporting and business competition. Banning TV advertising towards children and banning the use of artificial additives to all foods.

10.    Describe a time when your political opinion was challenged or changed.
My political opinion changed when I realised that voting is just the start – not the finish. We all need to do our bit to respond to current political actions and to shape the face of the future.

11.    What’s your favourite thing about your electorate?
Living by the beach is great. Living close to family is even better.

12.    What do you do to relax?
With two young kids I rarely get time to relax. So I combine down time with kid time – picnics, walks along the beach, playgrounds etc.