Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

The real power of independents (31 Aug 2024)

John Hewson argues that the rise of independent movements in Australian politics is an irreversible improvement in governance. He suggests that the upcoming election could reinforce the significance of independents, who continue to address voter concerns neglected by major parties.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Hung parliament would power up pressure on gas (28 Aug 2024)

Teal MP Kate Chaney and the Greens are urging an end to new gas projects, challenging Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's energy policy as he may need crossbench support in a potential minority government. Chaney argues that further fossil fuel development complicates Australia's decarbonisation efforts, aligning with broader calls for a swift transition to renewable energy.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Cries for a super tax rethink (26 Aug 2024)

The farm lobby, alongside Independent MPs, including Kate Chaney, is challenging Labor's proposed superannuation tax changes. The contentious "better targeted super" Bill seeks to tax unrealised earnings from investments over $3 million in self-managed super funds, a move critics argue unfairly targets farmers and small businesses. Teal MPs and rural independents oppose the legislation, citing its potential to force asset sales and jeopardise business succession plans. Advocates, including the National Farmers Federation, are calling for amendments to prevent undue hardship while still achieving the government's revenue objectives. The debate continues as crossbench MPs push for changes to the proposed bill.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Give your home an electric shock (24 Aug 2024)

Kate Chaney is spearheading an initiative to help households in her electorate become more energy efficient by electrifying their homes. A Floreat couple, Adrian and Milissa, who have already undertaken this transformation, will share their experiences at an event organised by the Curtin MP. The couple's home, built with sustainability in mind, boasts features like solar panels, a power storage battery, and energy-efficient systems, resulting in almost no power bills. Chaney's Electrify Curtin campaign aims to empower the community to make impactful changes toward a sustainable future. The event will be held at Scarborough Main Hall, and registration is available at www.electrifycurtin.com.au.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

‘Swiss cheese’ regulation: 21 crossbenchers call for a full gambling advertising ban (21 Aug 2024)

Twenty-one crossbenchers, including Kate Chaney, have called for a comprehensive ban on online gambling ads, criticising the government's current proposal for favouring broadcasters over public health. Chaney, who was part of a committee advocating for a ban, described the proposal as inadequate and full of exemptions. She highlighted that evidence supports a complete ban, as partial measures are ineffective, and suggested that many MPs support stronger actions but are reluctant to speak out.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Crossbench briefed on proposed gambling ad reform (21 Aug 2024)

Independent MP Kate Chaney has voiced her concerns regarding the federal government's approach to gambling advertising. During a recent briefing, Chaney advocated for a total ban on gambling ads, emphasising that this is what communities desire. She expressed frustration that the issue is being framed primarily as a public health concern but suspects economic factors, such as the sustainability of broadcast media, are influencing the government’s hesitation. Chaney also criticised the lack of public debate and called for broader discussions on alternative funding models for free-to-air television, like a levy. Additionally, she condemned the behaviour in parliamentary question time, describing it as appalling and condescending, though she refrained from labelling it outright misogyny.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Against the odds: Chaney believes the government could still change its mind on gambling (15 Aug 2024)

Kate Chaney, Curtin MP, criticises the Albanese government for not fully banning gambling ads, despite a committee’s unanimous recommendation. As the only independent on the committee, Chaney is disappointed but not surprised, citing the influence of vested interests on major parties. She remains optimistic that public pressure might change the government's stance and believes in the power of independents to enact change, even in a slow-moving democracy. Chaney continues to advocate for reforms that prioritise the community's long-term interests.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Independents team up to oppose tax rise on superannuation (14 Aug 2024)

Eight independent MPs, including Kate Chaney, oppose the Australian government's proposal to tax unrealised gains on superannuation balances over $3 million, arguing it could harm farmers, small businesses, and start-ups. The plan faces significant political resistance, making its passage uncertain.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Networks seek legal advice as gambling signs evade ad ban (11 Aug 2024)

Independent MP Kate Chaney criticises the government's partial ban on gambling ads, calling for a complete phase-out plan to prevent industry loopholes. Chaney argues that partial bans are ineffective and urges the government to implement comprehensive reforms that address the pervasive influence of gambling advertising in sports and media.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Time to punt TV gambling - Chaney (10 Aug 2024)

Curtin MP Kate Chaney criticised the Albanese government for being "gutless" in resisting a total ban on television gambling ads, citing pressure from powerful media forces. Chaney highlighted that the government's fear of losing gambling-ad revenue, particularly in Western Australia, is influencing their decision-making. Emphasising the serious health impacts of sports betting, Chaney compared the issue to tobacco advertising and revealed that her constituents have shared heart-breaking stories of loss due to gambling. She called for a complete ban on gambling ads, noting that three-quarters of Australian children think betting on sport is normal due to such ads.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

The Big Gamble (10 Aug 2024)

Independent MP Kate Chaney criticises the government for delaying gambling ad reforms, arguing that media and television interests are influencing policy decisions over public health concerns. Chaney highlights the government's failure to implement a full ban on online gambling ads, despite widespread public support and recommendations from a parliamentary committee.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Government close to finalising electoral reforms but faces a sceptical parliament (7 Aug 2024)

Independent MP Kate Chaney has criticised the Albanese government for delaying changes to electoral spending and donation rules. Chaney emphasises that these reforms are crucial for ensuring fair and transparent elections and preventing undue influence by wealthy donors. She calls for lower donation caps and comprehensive reporting requirements to safeguard electoral integrity and restore public trust in the democratic process.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Labor criticised for meetings with betting companies ahead of decision on gambling ads (6 Aug 2024)

Independent MP Kate Chaney has criticised Labor for holding meetings with betting companies ahead of a decision on gambling advertisements. Chaney argues that these meetings undermine public trust and calls for greater transparency in government dealings with industry stakeholders. She advocates for stricter regulations on gambling ads to protect vulnerable populations and ensure policy decisions prioritise public welfare over industry influence.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

ABC Radio Perth - Gambling Advertising (6 Aug 2024)

Kate Chaney MP, the independent member for Curtin, calls for a complete ban on gambling ads, criticising current compromises that favour gambling companies and TV stations. She highlights the detrimental impact on young men and the need for strong government leadership akin to the tobacco ad ban 20 years ago. Chaney emphasises the unfair advantage gambling companies have due to extensive data on customers and urges decisive action to protect vulnerable individuals and reduce gambling-related harm.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Energy policy uncertainty bad for business (6 Aug 2024)

Kate Chaney MP emphasises the urgent need for clear and consistent energy policies to drive Australia's prosperity. Highlighting the economic advantages of renewables and the global race to decarbonize, she criticises the detrimental impact of political point scoring on energy policy. Chaney calls for multi-partisan support to ensure a stable framework that attracts investment and leverages Australia's unique renewable resources, moving away from costly and impractical solutions like nuclear and coal.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

ABC RN Breakfast - Gambling Advertising (5 Aug 2024)

Federal Member for Curtin, Kate Chaney discusses the Federal Government's delayed response to a parliamentary inquiry into online gambling harms. Highlighting key recommendations, including a ban on gambling advertising, Chaney addresses concerns over potential policy dilution and the powerful lobbying efforts by sports codes and media companies. She emphasszes the need to prioritise public health over financial interests and draws parallels to past tobacco regulations. Chaney also critiques political donations from gambling companies, advocating for greater transparency and integrity in policymaking.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Fair Work set to apply for CFMEU administrators as crossbenchers tell federal government to go further (1 Aug 2024)

Kate Chaney MP and other crossbenchers have requested a meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to address concerns over the growing influence of the CFMEU on government policies. Chaney emphasises the need for transparency and accountability, stressing that while unions are vital, their influence should not compromise the government's integrity or the national interest. This initiative aims to reassess union-government relations and safeguard fair governance in Australia.

Read More