1.    When and why did you decide to become a politician?
I decided to run in 2005, following the massive defeat of Labor in the previous year’s election. The reason why was to restore some of the ethics of government to Australia. I understand that ‘fairness’ is a very abstract concept, but I know that the aim of all great governments has been the wellbeing of the society governed, to support the weak against the great and ambitions of the strong.

2.    What do you think are the issues that matter to young people?
I think fairness in the workplace, a chance to get a secure job and the chance to learn how to prepare for the future. I also think that young people need to express themselves and be taken seriously.

3.    How do you plan to address these issues?
A Labor Government will overturn the unfair WorkChoices legislation, increase funding to TAFE and personally, I will take time to set a youth forum for Gilmore where issues that concern young people would be considered.

4.    How do you engage with young people to find out what issues matter to them?
Through my own children (24, 23 and 18 years old) and their mates. I have a background in marketing and advertising and this has equipped me with some very particular listening skills. Also, I feel that there are two schools of politics, open and closed - I am very much of the open variety of politician.

5.    What did you care about when you were a young voter?
Very similar things to now: withdrawal of Australia from an unjust war (Vietnam), concern for the environment, the empowerment of women, and a larger role for young people in decision making in society.

6.    What is your opinion of young people in Australia?
The same as for all Australian’s young and old. I have learned that it is a big mistake to generalise, just look at the fingers of your hand, they are all the same age, but each is different. I have a tendency to look at the positive aspect of people.

7.    How do you think our political system can better engage with younger voters?
We are taught many things at home and school, but I think our political system is not very well understood. If anyone is to engage with that system, it is very important that they have a clear understanding of how things work. I think that better understanding will bring better engagement.

8.    What are the key long-term challenges facing Australia?
The environment is the big issue. For the first time in human history we have the means to render the planet uninhabitable. It is a long term challenge that needs attention now.

9.    If you could change one thing about Australia what would it be?
I would change our status as a constitutional monarchy. I am a republican.

10.    Describe a time when your political opinion was challenged or changed.
It was when I was in my teens and followed (without question) my mum’s belief in the Liberal Party. I saw a documentary about Vietnam and was challenged beyond the stuff we were told on the 6:30 news. If you’re interested have a look at some of the resources available on Vietnam and just insert the word Terrorism for Communism as we do it all over again. History never repeats, but sometimes it rhymes.

11.    What’s your favourite thing about your electorate?
The people.

12.    What do you do to relax?
I enjoy to surf, to read, loud music and I really like conversation.