1.    When and why did you decide to become a politician?
I'm not sure that I did decide to become a politician. I became involved in a local environment issue and was encouraged to stand for local government in my area. After two years on council, which was sacked by Jeff Kennett as councils were amalgamated, I was then approached by my predecessor to run for the Senate as he was retiring and I think I made the decision then on the grounds that there ought to be more women in parliament. That was in 1994. 

2.    What do you think are the issues that matter to young people?
Young people in my experience are just as concerned as others about all the pressing issues of our time – climate change, human rights, peace and non-violence, good health and education systems, and much more.  For their immediate needs I think the cost of higher education and training, relationships, the availability of good, satisfying jobs, affordable housing and good transport are important. But young people are not an homogenous group and this varies according to who you are and your life circumstances.

3.    How do you plan to address these issues?
You will find most of our election platform on these issues on our website.

4.    How do you engage with young people to find out what issues matter to them?
The Democrats have had a resurgence of interest from young people and many have joined recently which we very much welcome as a sign of renewal. In Victoria six or so members in their 20s will stand as candidates in lower house electorates and I rely on their advice as well as the feedback to my YouTubes and MySpace, much of which appears to come from young people.

5.    What did you care about when you were a young voter?
Mostly environment issues but I've always been keen to see Australia become a republic and for women to be more equal in decision-making at every level in society

6.    What is your opinion of young people in Australia?
The ones I know are smart, creative, very technologically savvy, idealistic and engaged, and they are not fooled by 'spin'.

7.    How do you think our political system can better engage with younger voters?
I think the voting age should be lowered to 16 but not made compulsory until 18.  This would give those interested in democracy and politics a chance to be involved.  We need more young people in the parliament as role models and to contribute their ideas.

8.    What are the key long-term challenges facing Australia?
Undoubtedly climate change is the most serious and urgent problem, and with it water shortages which have the capacity to drastically reduce food production. Peak oil – the point at which demand exceeds production – also looms as a threat to our economy and our way of life.  Our ageing population presents problems, particularly in health and mental health services, which are a long way from adequate.  The latter particularly affects young people because the onset of mental illness typically occurs when you are a young adult.

9.    If you could change one thing about Australia what would it be?
Our punitive, inhumane refugee laws.

10.    Describe a time when your political opinion was challenged or changed.
It happens all the time through the inquiries that the Senate conducts as evidence is brought forward, but I can't say that I have changed my value system or core positions.