Mary Doyle
Aston · Australian Labor Party · Australia
“Our government is laser focused on assisting with the cost of living. On this side of the chamber, we understand that many Australians feel as though the economy isn't working for them. We know that right around the country Australians are looking for solutions, and that's why Labor is delivering real change.”
“We've passed new laws to give first home buyers a fair go because, if you work hard and save, you should be able to buy a home of your own. Lower taxes, higher pay and a fair go for families and first home buyers—that's real change, and that matters to people in my community. It's real change that we'll keep delivering.”
“We all know the type—the people from local organisations that put on a feed for people who are having a hard time feeding themselves; those in a community group that support women and children fleeing family and domestic violence; the club presidents and coaches who give up their evenings and weekends to ensure local sporting clubs run sm…”
“We back workers on the minimum wage and those on modern awards. We welcome the decision by the Fair Work Commission to increase the minimum wage by 5.97 per cent to $26.44 per hour, alongside a 4.75 per cent increase to award wages from 1 July this year.”
“They don't ask for recognition and they don't seek the spotlight, but, without them, our communities simply would not function the way they do. These people and organisations are the very reason why the Tilly Aston Community Awards were created a couple of years ago.”
“These awards honour a legacy of service and community spirit that continues to inspire today. Nominations are now open to anyone living or working in the electorate of Aston, and I especially encourage self-nominations. Sometimes the people doing the most meaningful work do not realise just how much of a difference they are making.”
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“For many local families, this has shortened the timeline for saving for a deposit, making what was once a distant dream of homeownership a more achievable goal. Additionally, Australia's healthcare system has seen substantial strengthening, with the single biggest investment in Medicare since its establishment. The expansion of urgent care clinics nationally, alongside increased bulk-billing for GP visits, has ensured that Australians can access timely and affordable care. In the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, where families rely on a mix of local clinics and nearby hospitals, these improvements have contributed to better access to essential health services. More bulk-billed GP appointments mean fewer barriers for parents bringing children to the doctor, older residents seeking routine care and individuals managing ongoing health needs.”
“Our 20 per cent reduction to student debt has helped millions of Australians, including 21,439 people in Aston, with a HECS debt. This change has eased financial pressure for locals studying at nearby tertiary institutions or those beginning professional careers. Instead of entering the workforce burdened by debt, students and graduates now have a little breathing room, whether they are pursuing additional study, saving for a home or planning the next steps in their lives. For those in Aston aspiring to own their first home, policy changes this year have also had a real impact. With the introduction of the five per cent deposit scheme for first home buyers, more residents in suburbs like Bayswater, Rowville, Wantirna, Knoxfield and Scoresby can now see a clearer path to entering the housing market.”
“As 2025 draws to a close, I reflect on what a rollercoaster of a year it was—a huge federal election campaign in the first half, an amazing win and many things delivered in the second half of 2025 by this second term Albanese Labor government. I want to take this opportunity to thank the good people of Aston for re-electing me as their federal member on 3 May. It is such an incredible honour to represent you here in this place, and I assure you I do not take that privilege for granted. Our government has spent the past year working to strengthen communities and make everyday life a little easier by providing effective cost-of-living relief. For young people, this year has brought meaningful improvements in education and financial security.”
“Through these investments we are saying to every Australian: 'You are not alone. Your story matters and your future is worth fighting for.'”
“This is what leadership looks like: not turning away from hard conversations, but embracing them with honesty and hope. It is about standing beside every Australian saying: 'You matter. Your life matters, and help is available.' Together we are rewriting the story of mental health in this country to one of connection, care and courage. As we expand this network of free, high-quality services, Australians can turn to the Medicare mental health phone line or visit the Medicare Mental Health website to find the service that's right for them. This is what it means to govern with empathy, with purpose and with a commitment to the wellbeing of every Australian, because when we invest in mental health, we invest in the strength, the resilience and the humanity of our nation. Hope is the heartbeat of a healthy society.”
“Let us be clear that this is not just about services or statistics. It is about building a culture of compassion. It is about communities that lift each other up, workplaces that nurture wellbeing and schools that teach our children that it is okay to ask for help. It is about ensuring that mental health care is not a privilege but a fundamental right for every Australian. We know that when mental health is supported, everything else follows. Families grow stronger, communities become safer and our economy thrives because people can reach their potential. Mental wellbeing is not just a health issue; it is a foundation for opportunity, equality and national prosperity. This government understands that when we invest in people's minds and hearts, we invest in the future of our country.”
“Every Australian deserves access to compassionate, quality mental health care no matter where they live, their background or their circumstances. We know that mental health challenges can affect anyone at any stage of life, just as they affected me 24 years ago. These investments are about meeting people where they are, providing support before crisis strikes and ensuring that no-one faces their struggles alone. Behind every policy and every program is a person, be they a parent, a child, a young person, a friend or a neighbour who deserves to be heard, supported and valued. When someone reaches out for help, they are showing courage, not weakness. Our responsibility is to meet that courage with care, to replace stigma with understanding and to ensure that hope is never out of reach.”
“On one of my visits to the maternal child health nurse in my local area, she gently asked me some questions. How was I feeling? Was I getting out to see friends and family and so on? Then she got me to fill out a questionnaire, and, as it turned out, I was subsequently diagnosed with post-natal depression. It had never occurred to me during those first few months of motherhood. In my naivety, I figured only mums with babies who didn't sleep or who cried all the time got post-natal depression. But PND can happen to any mum. It can happen to new mums or it can strike you when you've had your second baby or any other baby after that. I was very fortunate to have had the mental health support I needed at that time and was able to get through that challenging time in my life.”
“We are professionalising the peer workforce, establishing a new peer workforce association next year and conducting a national census to better understand and strengthen this vital part of our mental health system. On a personal note, I have my own lived experience of requiring mental health support, back in November 2001, when my firstborn baby boy, Clancy, was around four months old. I had not been feeling myself for some time but couldn't figure out why. My new little bub, Clancy, was a dream. He slept soundly. He wasn't much of a crier. He breastfed beautifully and I bonded so strongly with him. On that level, we were doing very well as new mum and bub. But I couldn't sleep. My mind was racing. I was no longer interested in socialising or doing all the things that used to bring me joy.”
“This service is expected to reach more than 150,000 Australians every year, helping people access care early before their challenges become a crisis. By expanding access to free public mental health services that meet different levels of need, our initiatives will relieve pressure on subsidised private psychology services, thus making it easier for people to get the right care when and where they need it. Furthermore, our government is investing in the future of the mental health workforce with more than 4,000 psychology scholarships, internships and training places to ensure we have the skilled professionals required to deliver these services across the nation. Importantly, we are recognising the invaluable contributions of people with lived experiences.”
“For young people aged 12 to 25, 203 headspace services across the country continue to play a vital role in supporting their mental health and wellbeing. Additionally, as part of the Albanese Labor government's recent election commitment, headspace Knox in my electorate of Aston will be uplifted to a headspace Plus, demonstrating the deep understanding this government has regarding the growing need and complexity of youth mental health. Headspace Knox offers young people in my community aged 12 to 25 a welcoming environment where they can access confidential and free mental health support, health advice and general information. From early next year, we will also roll out a new national early intervention service, providing free mental health phone and online support from trained professionals.”
“The month of October was Mental Health Month, and the Albanese Labor government is delivering more mental health services in the heart of communities right across the country. As part of our government's plan to strengthen Medicare, we made an historic $1.1 billion commitment at this year's election to deliver new and expanded mental health services that support Australians across every stage of life. As a government, we are establishing 91 Medicare Mental Health Centres offering free, walk in care from multidisciplinary teams. Our government is also creating 20 perinatal mental health centres to deliver tailored support for new and expecting parents and 17 Medicare Mental Health Kids Hubs to provide children and their families with the behavioural, social, emotional and wellbeing support they need.”
“I would particularly like to acknowledge Ethne, Ray, Marj, John and Leo for their unwavering commitment to support some of our most vulnerable residents. The work of all involved in the Elm St Mission is truly inspiring, and our community is kinder, stronger and more connected because of their work. I wish Elm St Mission many more years of growth, impact and compassion, and I commend them for the hope and support they continue to offer to all who need it most.”
“On the weekend, I had the honour of attending an event in Bayswater to celebrate the sixth birthday of the Elm St Mission. This celebration brought together residents, volunteers and supporters to celebrate the program's achievement and raise vital funds for a new defibrillator and first aid equipment. Elm St Mission was founded with a clear and compassionate purpose to provide a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for individuals experiencing mental health challenges or social isolation. In only six years, it has grown into far more than a community service. It has become a refuge, a gathering place and, for many in my community, a lifeline. The volunteer, staff and supporters who sustain Elm St Mission embody the spirit of service that strengthens our social fabric.”
“Through this tragedy, our community's compassion has shone brighter than ever. The response reflects not only the love people had for Ben but also the enduring strength of a community that stands shoulder to shoulder in times of grief—a community bound by empathy, respect and the kindest of hearts. Rest in peace, Ben.”
“I also spoke with Lee Thompson, Ferntree Gully Cricket Club president, and asked that he please send my sincere condolences to Ben's family and also to his teammate, who must be hurting terribly as well. What began as unimaginable heartbreak quickly revealed the depth of kindness and solidarity that exists within our community. Clubs across the region came together to honour Ben's memory. Players wore black armbands, held moments of silence before matches and gathered to support one another both on and off the field. Social media became a space of warmth and remembrance filled with stories celebrating Ben's sportsmanship, humour and generous spirit. A campaign called #batsoutforben went viral, with people from every corner of the cricketing world placing bats on their doorsteps as a symbol of respect.”
“His love for the game was matched only by his humility, leadership and kindness. In March this year, Ben received the Brian Wright Trophy, an award given to the junior player who shows the correct attitude and dedication to the game. It was a fitting recognition of the character and commitment that defined him both on and off the field. A division having been called in the House of Representatives— Sitting suspended from 11:16 to 11:26 In the days following this tragedy, the Ferntree Gully community and the wider cricket family united in an extraordinary demonstration of compassion and strength. Last Saturday morning, I visited Wally Tew Reserve in Ferntree Gully, where I laid some flowers and placed a small cricket bat with a message alongside the incredible array of tributes already there.”
“Last week my community and the cricket community across the country learnt of the devastating news of a tragic accident that occurred at a cricket training session in Ferntree Gully. This heartbreaking incident led to the death of 17-year-old Ben Austin. Ben was an adored son to Jace and Tracey, a deeply loved brother to Cooper and Zach, and a shining light in the lives of his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Young Ben loved his sport more than anything. He was an active and much loved member of the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club, the Mulgrave Cricket Club and the Eildon Park Cricket Club. Ben also represented his region with pride, captaining the Ferntree Gully and District Cricket Association to a premiership. Ben was an extremely talented bowler and batter, respected by team mates, coaches and opponents alike.”
“My question is to the Minister for Health and Ageing. How is the Albanese Labor government strengthening Medicare by investing in bulk-billing after a decade of cuts and neglect? Is this investment reaching all corners of the country? What has been the response to these changes?”
“This is the next crucial step on our path to a cleaner, stronger economy. Our net zero plan outlines how we'll achieve a fair, orderly and efficient transition, a transition that grows the economy, reduces costs for households and businesses and ensures no Australian is left behind. Yet, while on this side of the House we are guided by science and ambition, those opposite are guided by denial and delay. Consumed by infighting and division, they offer Australians no credible path forward—just a net zero alternative to the leadership of this country.”
“On this side of the House, we know that taking strong action on climate change isn't just about protecting our environment; it's about securing our future and strengthening our economy. The science is clear: the climate is changing because of global emissions, and Australia is already feeling the effects. Droughts, bushfires and floods are events that are no longer warnings of the future but instead the reality of today. By reducing emissions now, we can limit the worst impacts of climate change while creating new industries, new technologies and good, secure jobs across the nation. Since coming to office, the Albanese Labor government has legislated our commitment to net zero emissions by 2050 and set an ambitious target to cut emissions by 62 to 70 per cent below 2005 levels by 2035.”
“Our investment will deliver an additional 18 million bulk-billed GP visits every year, nationwide, with nine out of 10 GP visits being bulk-billed by 2030. Australians know that, when it comes to investing in the health care of Australians, they can only trust a Labor government. On this side of the House, we know that, when it comes to getting quality health care close to home, all you need, or all you should need, is your Medicare card—not your credit card.”
“Two weeks ago, the Minister for Health and Ageing announced that there had been over two million visits to Medicare urgent care clinics across the country. This means that over two million Australians have been able to walk into one of these clinics and get the care they needed without paying one cent. From cuts and burns to sprains and infections, Australians are getting free health care closer to home when they need it. Since being elected, the Albanese Labor government has opened urgent care clinics right across the country, including the Bayswater urgent care clinic in my own electorate of Aston. And the good news is that there are even more of these clinics on the way. Also on the way, from 1 November, is a major boost in payments to general practices that bulk-bill every patient.”
“As a young person on my local council's Youth Advisory Committee, I see how deeply young people care about their future. Hence, I'm asking the government to continue to partner with us, invest in schools, mental health services, digital infrastructure, and youth leadership. Let's also invest in sustainability and STEM … education so students are ready for jobs in clean energy, climate innovation, and the industries of tomorrow. That's how we create a smarter, fairer, and greener Australia, not just in one neighbourhood or state, but right across the country. Thank you, Reyhaan, for your advocacy and your excellent speech.”
“Through Raise Our Voice Australia, it is now my honour to read out a speech from 14-year-old Reyhaan, an outstanding young leader in my electorate of Aston. Reyhaan wrote about education equity: Imagine two students. One has access to every learning resource—stable internet, tutoring, a quiet space to study. The other wants to succeed just as much but has none of those things. Which one do you think gets left behind? If we want a better tomorrow for young Australians, we must make education equity a priority today. It's not just about funding, it's about access, support, and fairness. We need stronger support systems in public schools, and targeted programs for students in rural, low-income, and multicultural communities. Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn't.”
“Aston is truly at the heart of multicultural Australia, and for as long as I am its local member I will continue to do everything I can to foster and encourage the celebration of cultural diversity. (Time expired)”
“To see so many smiling faces sharing and celebrating Chinese culture brought me so much joy and happiness—as did the noodles. Additionally, I felt immense pride meeting the young people in attendance. The young people hold the future of this wonderful association in their hands, and I have no doubt that CAV will continue to grow even bigger and touch the hearts of even more people in my electorate and the wider Melbourne community. I would especially like to thank the president of the Chinese Association of Victoria, Shirley Teh; the first VP, Christina Chia; the second VP, Debra Chan; and the third VP, Shirley Thong, for their hospitality and leadership of this incredible event. Additionally, I make special mention of Jordan Liang for being a great help to me on the day.”
“Following on from this incredible event, on Sunday I attended the Chinese Association of Victoria, or CAV, in Wantirna with my good friend the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Minister for Small Business and Minister for International Development, the Hon. Anne Aly, to celebrate the mid-autumn festival. The mid-autumn festival has become an integral part of the Australian calendar in our community. This event had it all: lantern decorating, kids' craft stations, cultural performances, community games, mooncake trivia, lucky draw and, later on in the evening, a lantern parade. Personally, however, my favourite thing about the event was the delicious food that was made on site by incredible volunteers and members of the CAV community.”
“National Multicultural Mental Health Month 2025 is about creating safe, respectful spaces where people feel heard, valued and supported. On the night, I presented awards that acknowledged the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals, organisations and groups who have been recognised as the winners of the 2025 Mental Health Awards. I would like to thank and acknowledge Professor Melissa Green and Vasan Srinivasan for their leadership and outstanding work at the Mental Health Foundation Australia. Additional thanks go to Jianming Chen and the Australian National Institute of Business and Technology for four years of dinner sponsorship, and to the Australian Indian Community Centre for hosting the event.”
“The electorate of Aston is one of the most culturally diverse electorates in the country, and this is something of which I'm truly proud. Last weekend I had the privilege of attending two great multicultural events that demonstrated what deep connections to culture many of my constituents share. On Saturday night I went along to the launch of the seventh National Multicultural Mental Health Month. This event was hosted by Mental Health Foundation Australia, in collaboration with multicultural communities from across the community, and I wish to acknowledge all parties involved for running such a fantastic event. Mental Health Foundation Australia, established in 1930, is Australia's oldest community-based mental health organisation.”
“My question is to the Minister for Skills and Training. How are the Albanese Labor government ensuring Australians, particularly apprentices, can make the most of the opportunities in the clean energy sector? Are they aware of any alternatives?”
“To see the member for Canning take to social media recently, profoundly expressing his sadness over the loss of our car manufacturing industry, was, quite frankly, galling. Let's not forget that this was the same member of parliament who was part of a coalition government that waved our car manufacturing industry goodbye as it sailed offshore, costing thousands of Australians their jobs. Coalition hypocrisy knows no bounds. Australians know that whilst those opposite are preparing for their fifth leadership change in 10 years, this Labor government will be busy delivering a future made right here in Australia.”
“In my electorate of Aston we have many incredible manufacturing businesses. Last month, I had the honour of visiting one of them to see firsthand how they operate. Catten Industries is a family-run business located in Bayswater specialising in advanced sheet metal fabrication and creative metal design. Catten Industries also employs many Aston locals, including young apprentices, to help them kickstart a career in manufacturing. This is an incredibly important thing for the future of many young Australians. Unlike those opposite, our government understand how important it is to keep Australian jobs in Australia. In our first term alone, the Albanese Labor government created more than one million jobs right here in Australia, which is the highest number of jobs created by a first-term government.”
“The last time PBS medicines cost no more than $25 was in 2004, 21 years ago. Back in 2004, I was mum to my toddler son, three-year-old Clancy, and had just become mum for the second time to my youngest, Lily. I was on maternity leave, sleep deprived with hair like a bird's nest, wearing tracky dacks day after day and loving every minute of it. Cheaper medicines are another key cost-of living relief measure delivered by this government that I know will help ease the financial stress of constituents in my community of Aston who rely on these vital medications every single day. While those opposite are busy infighting, we're busy out fighting for all Australians.”
“Since the election, held in May, the Albanese Labor government has been committed to delivering its promise on building Australia's future. During the 48th Parliament's first four weeks the contrast could not be clearer. Liberals are fighting Liberals, Nationals are fighting Nationals and the Libs and Nats are having a crack at each other. Labor meanwhile is focused on building Australia's future by delivering on our election commitment to tackle the cost of living and to strengthen Medicare. One way we're helping Australians with the cost of living is through cheaper medicines. From 1 January 2026 the Albanese Labor government is expanding that further by making cheaper medicines even cheaper. Earlier this week we passed legislation that would mean a prescription on the PBS would cost Australians no more than $25.”
“She said in her card that she and her husband could not thank me enough for this service and that both the nurse and doctor there were very caring to both her husband and her. Of course, the urgent care clinic in Bayswater is bulk-billed as well, another fantastic aspect of this initiative that this government has achieved for the Australian people—real changes for which people like Jennifer and her husband are 100 per cent thankful and of which the benefits are obvious. I am very proud to be part of the Albanese Labor government that is delivering so many excellent policies that help people in my community and across Australia.”
“This scheme is part of the Albanese government's $43 billion housing agenda, including a $10 billion commitment to deliver 100,000 homes exclusively for first home buyers. By delivering this reform, we are giving Australians a chance to step into their first home, build security for their families and invest in their futures. One more wonderful thing that the Albanese Labor government has done for the people of Australia and the good people of Aston is ensure that there is a Medicare urgent care clinic close by for those types of non-life-threatening injuries that still need to be seen to urgently. Recently, I received a lovely thankyou card from Jennifer from Wantirna South, who wrote to me about having to access the urgent care clinic in Bayswater when her husband needed it.”
“From 1 October this year, every Australian buying their first home will be able to do so with just a five per cent deposit and without the added cost of lenders mortgage insurance. This will ensure that more young people, families and hardworking people in Aston and, indeed, in Australia will have the chance to buy their first home sooner. For example, people living in Aston suburbs like Heathmont, Wantirna, Rowville and Knoxfield can purchase a $1 million home with a $50,000 deposit instead of a $200,000 deposit. In its first year of operating alone, this scheme will save homeowners approximately $1.5 billion in mortgage insurance costs. Wow! That's much-needed money that will stay in the pockets of household budgets, and it's bringing homeownership within reach so much sooner.”
“Knox United Soccer Club, as well as Knoxfield Knights Cricket Club, were very happy to have this $1.8 million commitment from our government alongside a $5.3 million commitment from Knox City Council, and they're now looking forward to seeing the pavilion's implementation. The Albanese Labor government are committed to women's sport, as I am too, and this investment in local sport will ensure that all members of the community are able to access these fantastic sporting clubs. Another Albanese Labor government commitment is the Home Guarantee Scheme, which 782 people in Aston have already accessed, and now the dream of owning a home is getting closer for more people.”
“Speaking of bringing community together, I want to now highlight a great club in my electorate: the Knox United Soccer Club. This club, which began in 1993 and has many passionate members, had needed a new forever home for a while. I have met and consulted with them several times since becoming the member for Aston, and their advocacy for upgrades to facilities and the new pavilion paid off. I was rapt to have announced, alongside the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, the Hon. Catherine King MP, in April that a re-elected Albanese Labor government would commit $1.8 million towards a brand new pavilion with two extra change rooms catering to the needs of the increasing number of girls and women who play soccer with this club.”
“Over the weekend I had the wonderful privilege of hosting the second annual Tilly Aston Community Awards. Held in Wantirna, at the Chinese Association of Victoria, these awards honoured outstanding contributions and achievements within the Aston community. Named after Tilly Aston, a renowned advocate for social causes, these awards aim to celebrate individuals and groups that have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership and positive impact in various aspects of community life. Among the recipients of the awards were tireless volunteers in schools, charitable and community organisations and sporting clubs who've been working selflessly for others in ways that bring the community together. It was fantastic to be able to honour and recognise so many outstanding members of the Aston community and highlight their work with others.”
“As your MP in federal parliament, I am here to listen to you, learn from you and advocate for you to the best of my ability. Thank you for putting your trust in me. I'd also like to thank my wonderful family. Clancy, who's here today for me, thank you for being here. Thank you to my wonderful partner, Anthony, and to Lily, my daughter and Jamilah, my great-niece.”
“Thanks also must go to those ministers, assistant ministers and senators who came to visit my electorate of Aston during the last term, some of whom came to visit during my re-election campaign too: Senator Penny Wong; Senator Katy Gallagher; the member for Chifley, Ed Husic; the member for Isaacs, Mark Dreyfus; Minister Clare O'Neil; Assistant Minister Ged Kearney; Minister Catherine King; Minister Kristy McBain; Minister Matt Keogh; Minister Tony Burke; Minister Anika Wells; Minister Amanda Rishworth; Minister Anne Aly; Minister Andrew Giles and, of course, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Having you all visit Aston was most welcomed by me and our community of Aston. Thank you to all the wonderful people of Aston who came out to support me and to re-elect me.”
“You've been at all three of my campaign launches and have championed me all the way. I cannot thank you enough, Lisa. Thank you also to the senator's amazing staff for assisting me and my team throughout the last year. It's been incredible getting to know you all. To Senator Jess Walsh: thank you for all your assistance with doorknocking and for your support and friendship during my election campaign as well.”
“I would especially like to thank the following: Isabel Machuca, Cael McFarlane, Katie and Leiah, Pat and Ken Rivett, Lance Cadman, James Gan, Jacqui Cherry, Sally Larwood, Pat Kelly, Alison Fitch, Paul Sparks, Darcy Truin, Jesse Williams and Ashley Jakowitz. And to my staff—Russell, Hannah, Mannie, Divya, Shauna, Sunny, Chunying, Jacob, and Mary French—and former staffer Richard: thank you all too. Thank you so much to my state Labor colleagues: the member for Bayswater, Jackson Taylor MP, and the member for Monbulk, Daniela De Martino MP, as well as Michael Galea MLC and all of their wonderful staff. To one of my dearest friends of many, many years and now senator for Victoria the Hon. Lisa Darmanin: thank you for your continued support and friendship over the years and also during the times I ran as the Labor candidate in Aston.”
“People in Aston loved it, and, if they hadn't heard about it, they loved learning about it. Cheaper medicines; 60-day scripts; the tripling of the Medicare incentives for GPs, making it easier to access bulk-billing; and the automatic $300 energy bill relief for 2024-25, which was extended for another $150 to the end of 2025—these were the things that truly helped people and truly mattered to people. During the 2025 federal election campaign, I was supported by an incredible team of wonderful and loyal volunteers, staff members and friends who once again rallied for me to be the member for Aston. They helped me by knocking on 20,000 doors, making 14,000 phone calls and letterboxing tens of thousands of dwellings within Aston.”
“The Liberal Party denied having anything to do with them; however, I witnessed their volunteers pack down these corflutes at the conclusion of voting on prepoll. A huge amount of money was spent in Aston by my opponent and those that backed him, but, once again, my volunteers and I stayed strong. For months we had been focused on the people of Aston through doorknocks, phone calls and regular visits to shopping centres, coffee shops and the like, and the response we received was incredibly positive towards me as their federal member and towards the Prime Minister and our federal Labor government about what we had achieved already in the three years in office and what I had delivered as their new member for Aston for the past two years. The Bayswater urgent care clinic, in particular, was a huge winner for our community of Aston.”
“The candidate himself would try to pick a fight with me or another of the candidates and then film what he hoped would be some kind of altercation with one of his young male volunteers. He accused one woman, an independent candidate from another electorate, of yelling when she clearly was not yelling at all. It was all very weird, and I honestly couldn't understand how he thought this behaviour would win him votes. In the lead-up too, all over the electorate I had my corflute signs pulled down again and again and again. I'd put them back up, and they'd get pulled down again, while his corflutes—and he had so many of them—stayed put. Then the nasty, blatantly sexist and factually wrong corflutes and large banners about me went up all around the electorate.”
“On day 1 of prepoll 2025, when we were at a booth, my two volunteers and I noticed a stark difference in both the by-election and 2022 election prepoll kick-offs. The number of Liberal Party volunteers not only outnumbered us; they far exceeded what's considered normal by the standards of past elections. This new guard weren't familiar with the etiquette of ordinary how-to-vote vollies of all persuasions; they were mean and they were coordinated in their meanness and their moves. I would move to a different area and then be shadowed by one or more of them or my volunteers would be. They would also loudly sing strange chants at the largely befuddled voters lined up and jiggle their candidate's corflutes at people walking in.”
“To go through another federal election campaign as the incumbent this time was a totally different experience again—another campaign, another Liberal opponent. This one was an entirely different beast—I'm talking about the campaign, not my opponent, of course. The opposition had chosen their candidate well ahead of time, and he'd been out and about very early. He and his people were flagrantly telling story after ludicrous story about me personally, about our government and about his own past, including exactly where he was from—that is, born and raised—and the location of the school where he was a 'local teacher'. He even changed his first name to try and hide certain facts about himself as the failed Liberal candidate for Bruce in 2013 and the failed Liberal candidate for Holt in 2007.”