ABC Drive Kate Chaney vs Tom White debate (10 Apr 2025)
Debate summary: A recent live debate between independent MP Kate Chaney and Liberal candidate Tom White, moderated by Gary Adshead, highlighted the contrasting visions for Curtin as the 2025 federal election approaches.
Chaney, who won the seat in 2022 by a margin of 2,657 votes, emphasised her independent approach and commitment to representing community values. White positioned himself as a candidate aligned with a potential Liberal government, arguing that only a party representative could bring tangible outcomes to the electorate.
Chaney criticised both major parties for failing to address critical national issues including climate change, tax reform and housing. She described the Coalition as adopting a "Trump-style path" and asserted that parties are more concerned with political rivalry than effective governance. "We need smarter, braver decisions from our leaders, and I’ll keep pushing until we get them, because our future should be something that we can all be excited about,” she said.
She defended her refusal to pre-emptively nominate a preferred party leader in the event of a hung parliament, stating she would negotiate based on long-term issues such as housing and climate: “I would be willing to be pragmatic and work with both sides.”
White tried to frame Chaney’s independence as ineffective, stating she is part of a protest movement that cannot influence government policy. He focused on economic concerns, energy policy and national stability, arguing that without Curtin, the Coalition could not win government. He criticised Chaney’s past opposition to the North West Shelf gas expansion, claiming it endangered jobs and accused her of aligning too frequently with the Greens.
On environmental and energy issues, Chaney advocated caution, particularly regarding long-term fossil fuel projects. She called for a robust legal framework to assess their climate impact, asserting that environmental regulations should not be bypassed. On the topic of online gambling, she pushed for a full ban on advertising, citing strong community and cross-party support. White supported a ban during live sport broadcasts but warned against sweeping restrictions due to economic implications.
Housing affordability emerged as a key concern. Chaney noted that the crisis was decades in the making and called for long-term solutions, including increased supply. She has hosted housing forums and produced a detailed housing policy for Curtin. White advocated immediate migration reductions and boosting housing supply, dismissing Chaney’s efforts as insufficiently results-driven.
A subsequent radio talkback segment reflected strong public engagement. Several callers praised Chaney’s independence, work ethic and consultative style, with one noting, “She’s a revelation... a really hard worker and she deserves to be returned.”
Others highlighted her balanced approach to policymaking and her capacity to evaluate legislation on merit rather than party loyalty. Some callers criticised White’s aggressive tone during the debate, particularly his repeated interruptions, which were perceived as disrespectful.
Overall, the debate and ensuing public responses underscored a clear divide: Chaney advocates for independent, community-led representation, while White offers party-backed influence and policy alignment with the Liberal platform.
