Australia's Energy Future: Renewables, Not Nuclear

• Renewables' Role: Currently, renewables supply over one-third of Australia's electricity. They offer economic and environmental benefits and can be deployed rapidly.

• Criticism of Nuclear Power: The Liberal Party's plan for seven nuclear power plants lacks cost details and is criticized for being slow, expensive, and impractical. Nuclear power costs are 1.5 to 2.5 times higher than renewables, and small modular reactors are not yet proven.

• Urgency for Action: Australia cannot afford to wait 15+ years to develop nuclear energy, given the need to meet emissions targets and avoid rising power costs.

• Renewables' Advantages: Cheaper, cleaner, and adaptable to modern grids, renewables are already advancing Australia toward a competitive, sustainable energy future.

Authored by Kate Chaney MP.

How do we solve our housing crisis without losing the unique character that makes Curtin feel like home?

WA – like the rest of Australia – is in the grip of a housing crisis. Here in Curtin, we want to protect what makes our suburbs special, but we also want our kids and grandkids to be able to buy their own place one day and - hopefully - live near us. Over the last 20 years, policies from both major parties have driven house prices up from four to eight times the average income. Australia now has the second-most expensive housing on earth. As a result, our young people are living with their parents for longer, delaying life decisions, taking out huge mortgages, seeking support from the ‘bank of Mum & Dad’ or renting long term. Two thirds of Australian households are owned, and let’s face it, no-one complains when the value of their home increases, so successive governments have kept creating policies that increase the value of housing, throwing fuel on the fire. We’ve got tax incentives that favour investors over home buyers, we’re building far less social housing, and we keep giving out home buyers’ grants. We know we need more density, but how do we make this happen without losing what makes Curtin special? In Curtin, we currently have 42,000 houses, 17,000 semis and 16,000 flats. We need more medium and high-density housing, but the key is to make sure these developments are sustainable, liveable and welcomed by the neighbours. After extensive community consultation, I recently made a Curtin Submission to the National Urban Policy, which set out recommendations on areas including respecting our suburbs, housing diversity, green space and tree canopy, transport, climate & environmental impacts and better coordination between all levels of government. People are consistently telling me they’re concerned over the lack of community consultation in planning processes, with many projects fitting poorly into their surrounding neighbourhoods. We need to build housing so young people can aspire to own a home. To do this, communities must be involved in planning decisions. Infill can strengthen and enhance neighbourhoods, but only if it's thoughtfully and carefully executed.

Major political parties prioritize election wins over community interests, allowing gambling ads to thrive despite public opposition. Calls for stronger regulation are being ignored due to significant donations from gambling companies. This article highlights the need for government accountability and challenges the influence of powerful industries on political decisions.

Last month, WA Senator Fatima Payman voted against her party on the recognition of Gaza, resulting in her resignation from the Australian Labor Party. This situation highlights a fundamental issue in representative democracy: whether political representatives should prioritize party loyalty or their communities and consciences.

It has been a devastating month for our community. Losing Jennifer and Gretl Petelczyc in such a violent and senseless way has left us reeling. The Bombara family has also been shattered and like you, I am heartbroken for everyone affected. We ask how this could have happened in our community, and how we can stop it happening again. When women speak up about being in fear of violence, the system must keep them safe. Family and domestic violence-related assaults in WA are nearly double the average in other states.

Independent MP Kate Chaney focuses her attention on pressing community issues, informed by direct interactions with constituents during doorknocking sessions. Last weekend, Chaney and her volunteer team gathered input on local concerns, identifying housing affordability and the cost of living as critical challenges. Conversations with young adults and their parents highlighted the harsh reality of the housing crisis, where even those with decent jobs find home ownership unattainable. Additionally, a single mother expressed concerns about rent increases impacting her budget. Chaney acknowledges the complexity of these issues, emphasizing the need for long-term solutions and government coordination to address housing shortages and inflation. She advocates for targeted federal budget measures to alleviate cost of living pressures without exacerbating inflation. Chaney will host two upcoming seminars to further discuss financial wellbeing and strategies for managing living costs.

In her ongoing effort to restore trust in politics, Independent MP Kate Chaney introduced the Fair and Transparent Elections Bill in March, receiving support from crossbench members in both Houses, including Senator David Pocock. The bill aims to implement crucial electoral reforms to ensure transparency, including allowing voters to see who supports political candidates before casting their votes. Despite broad support, including from the government, there is concern among the crossbenchers that these changes may not be implemented before the next election. Chaney is committed to advocating for these reforms throughout her term, emphasising the importance of transparency to counteract vested interests and foster community-focused decision-making. She invites public engagement on this critical issue at her upcoming event on May 7.

The "Curtin’s Pathway to Net Zero" report, launched last week, outlines a community-driven approach to addressing climate change in Curtin. Detailing current emissions and necessary actions across electricity, transport, waste, and more, the report emphasises local and governmental roles in decarbonisation. With contributions from over 50 residents, it showcases the power of community collaboration in creating a sustainable future, highlighting benefits like reduced living costs and improved health. This initiative guides climate priorities and encourages advocacy at all levels.

Reflecting on a year marked by significant challenges and achievements, from economic hurdles to environmental victories, the annual review of 2023 showcases a journey of resilience and progress. Amidst the complexities of inflation, the Voice referendum, and global conflicts, the passage of crucial legislation like the improved Safeguard Mechanism and the Nature Repair Act stands out as a testament to our democratic values and commitment to a sustainable future. The concerted effort to reform gambling advertising and enhance political integrity through the 'Restoring Trust' Bill highlights a year dedicated to making meaningful changes. With the support of a vibrant community of volunteers, constituents, and a dedicated team, the journey through 2023 has been a remarkable blend of advocacy, community engagement, and legislative action, setting the stage for continued efforts to address the pressing issues facing Curtin and Australia at large.

Amidst escalating housing and cost of living pressures, the Curtin community has come together in two groundbreaking Housing Forums to tackle these critical issues head-on. Spearheaded by proactive constituents and a panel of experts, these forums have illuminated the urgent need for a National Housing Policy, innovative solutions like the Build to Rent model, and significant reforms to tax incentives and renters' protections. With a focus on sustainable development and increased housing supply, the Curtin community is leading the charge towards a future where housing is viewed as a home first and foremost. Stay tuned for a summary report on these pivotal discussions and the path forward for housing policy in Australia.

In the digital age, where misinformation can spread like wildfire, the question of whether politicians should be allowed to tell lies in political ads is more relevant than ever. With the recent referendum revealing the power of social media scare campaigns, it's clear that the integrity of political advertising is under threat. As democracies worldwide struggle with declining trust and the rise of sophisticated disinformation campaigns, the call for truth in political advertising laws grows louder. But can we legislate honesty in politics without compromising free speech? The proposed Restoring Trust Bill, inspired by South Australia's successful model, offers a glimmer of hope.

In the realm of politics, the line between substance and theatre often blurs, as highlighted by a recent Liberal Party advertisement accusing an independent MP of shielding government dealings from scrutiny. This claim, linked to a parliamentary vote concerning the relevance of a minister's response to a query about Qantas, serves as a prime example of the political gamesmanship that distracts from genuine issues. In her commitment to doing politics differently, the Kate Chaney MP clarifies her stance on the vote, emphasising her dedication to transparency and the pursuit of substantive political discourse over point-scoring. Addressing the broader issue of parliamentary reform, particularly in improving the directness of answers during Question Time, she reaffirms her dedication to enhancing the accountability and effectiveness of our democratic processes.

Housing affordability remains a paramount concern among Curtin residents, reflecting a broader national anxiety over the ability to secure a home in today's market. With a third of Curtin's population grappling with mortgages, another third owning their homes, and the rest renting, the issue transcends generational divides, touching everyone from young families to the elderly. The decline in housing construction, especially public housing, over the decades has exacerbated the situation, pushing home prices to unprecedented levels. In response, the call for innovative solutions has never been louder, prompting the proposal of a Citizens’ Assembly on Housing Affordability to explore viable strategies beyond the conventional political framework. Upcoming housing forums in Curtin aim to harness community insights, underscoring the urgent need for collaborative action to make the Australian dream of homeownership a feasible reality once again.

In an ambitious move to reshape the Australian electoral landscape, the upcoming 'Electoral Legislation Amendment (Restoring Trust) Bill' aims to address critical issues of fairness, transparency, and undue influence in politics. Developed in response to insights from the parliamentary Committee on Electoral Matters, this Private Member’s Bill seeks to level the playing field for new candidates, enhance the transparency of political donations, and curb the power of big money in politics. With proposals to introduce real-time disclosure for donations over $1,000 and ban contributions from government contractors and industries linked to social harm, the Bill challenges the status quo maintained by major parties. As the government contemplates its own electoral reforms, the 'Restoring Trust' Bill stands as a testament to the possibility of a fairer, more transparent electoral process, urging communities to demand a political system that truly represents their interests.

Navigating the delicate balance between making a tangible impact and being publicly acknowledged for it poses a unique challenge in the life of a Federal MP. Drawing from extensive experience across various sectors, the transition into politics highlights a stark contrast in approach: the power of quiet diplomacy versus the allure of vocal advocacy. In a landscape often dominated by short-term gains and the perpetual campaign for re-election, the focus shifts towards a more thoughtful, reasoned approach to governance. This method, prioritising long-term benefits and genuine outcomes over immediate recognition, may not always capture headlines but ensures integrity and peace of mind. As the political climate veers towards sensationalism, the quest for a more nuanced, level-headed style of politics becomes increasingly vital, raising questions about the public's appetite for such an approach amidst the prevailing trend of polarisation and simplification.

As a fresh Independent MP, the question of impact is ever-present. Through this monthly column, I aim to shed light on the parliamentary tools at my disposal, demonstrating how they're employed to effect change on issues vital to my community. This month's focus is on Question Time, a visible yet often contentious part of parliamentary proceedings. Despite its reputation for theatrics, Question Time serves as a critical platform for accountability, especially for crossbenchers like myself who strive to elevate community concerns and Western Australian interests. From whistleblower protection to environmental and social justice issues, my questions aim to pierce through the political noise, seeking substantive answers and spotlighting underrepresented topics. Amidst the cacophony of Question Time, the pursuit of a more dignified and effective discourse remains a priority, reflecting a commitment to enhancing governmental transparency and responsiveness.

The call for Constitutional recognition of First Nations people in Australia has reached a pivotal moment with the Uluru Statement from the Heart. This profound invitation, born from the 2017 National Constitutional Convention and 12 Regional Dialogues, seeks to establish a Voice to Parliament, reflecting the deep spiritual sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This sovereignty, unceded and co-existing with the Crown's, underscores the urgent need for structural reform to address the disproportionate incarceration, family alienation, and youth detention among Indigenous communities. The proposed constitutional reforms, including the establishment of a First Nations Voice and a Makarrata Commission for agreement-making and truth-telling, represent a critical step towards empowering First Nations people and enriching Australia's national identity. As we reflect on the journey from being counted in 1967 to seeking to be heard in 2017, the invitation to walk together towards a just and self-determined future for First Nations children and all Australians is more pressing than ever.

In the dynamic environment of Parliament, the process of voting in Divisions plays a crucial role in shaping legislation and policy outcomes. As an Independent MP, the responsibility to represent my community's values in every vote is paramount. With 92 Divisions participated in to date, my approach to voting is guided by principles of fairness, financial responsibility, and the pursuit of transparency and accountability. My voting record reveals a balanced support across the political spectrum, reflecting a commitment to the issues rather than party lines. As I continue to navigate the complexities of parliamentary decisions, I am dedicated to providing my constituents with a transparent account of my voting rationale, ensuring that the diverse voices of Curtin are heard and represented in the national discourse.

As an Independent MP, I'm often asked about the impact I can make. This month, I spotlight the parliamentary motion as a tool for change, particularly through my recent proposal addressing the vaping crisis among youth. Partnered with fellow MPs Dr. Sophie Scamps and Mike Freelander, we've spotlighted the urgent need for regulatory reform to curb the accessibility and appeal of vapes to young Australians. Our motion calls for government action to close loopholes that allow the unregulated sale of nicotine-containing vapes, advocating for a prescription-only model to protect our community's health. This initiative is driven by alarming feedback from constituents and educators in Curtin, highlighting the widespread misuse of vapes by teenagers, often marketed with youth-oriented flavours. As we await the Health Minister's response to proposed regulatory reforms, I remain committed to voicing the concerns of my community, pushing for meaningful action against the vaping epidemic.

Explore the key initiatives for Curtin in 2023, including the Pathway to Net Zero project, Voice Referendum support, and upcoming changes in environmental protection. Join efforts in building a sustainable and engaged community in Curtin. Read more about how we're planning to enhance local governance and community well-being in the new year.