Cities and health will be the two defining priorities of my work as an Independent.

Cities that work well have a range of housing choices that meet multiple community needs, are well designed, and have frequent and reliable public transport. These features all point to better connected communities and effectively drive down the cost of living.

We still have some way to go in Tasmanian cities. Decisions we make now will shape the lives of future generations.

Better planning and a reliable, effective public transport system are essential to shaping Hobart to make it easier and safer to live in, more affordable and more productive.

Across Tasmania people are forced to rely on cars, increasing congestion and emissions, causing transport poverty and limiting opportunity.

Preparing cities for the impacts of climate change must also be central to decision-making. Climate resilience isn’t optional, it’s responsible planning.It protects communities, supports long-term economic stability, and reduces costs down the track.

Just as well-designed cities can make a difference to people’s lives, so too does a reliable health system and a holistic approach to keeping Tasmanians healthy and out of hospitals.

As a former health professional, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of investing not just in acute care, but also in hospital avoidance and prevention. Smart governments and communities do what they can to help people to stay well, safe, connected and living in their own homes if possible.

I welcome the Government’s move to embed preventive health across all government sectors. If we invest earlier in hospital avoidance, preventive health, workplace safety and community wellbeing, we reduce pressure on hospitals and improve quality of life for community members.

Strong cities and a healthier population are fundamental to a strengthening Tasmania’s economy.

Responsible financial management is an absolute requirement to afford necessary public services and replace ageing infrastructure.

This must not come at the cost of skimping on vital social services or selling off public assets like Hydro.

These priorities are deeply connected. Healthier people and well-functioning cities support productivity, sustainability, and long-term economic growth. These are the fundamental issues I care most deeply about.

I’m focused on practical, local solutions that strengthen communities but see that we must act now to make structural change in order to deliver for our community and protect our special natural and built heritage.

As an Independent, I’ll work across the Parliament and all three tiers of government to find solutions to some of our state’s most vital challenges.