How is my platform different from my policy positions?
While I have many policies that I can run a campaign on, if a candidate runs on too many policies at once, their message can be lost in the weeds. If everything is highlighted, then nothing is. People need to be able to focus on some main policies they can get behind and support, typically narrowed down to three or four.
My platform is those policies I intend to run on.
Which policies will make the cut?
There are policies that are important to me, however I must choose those which resonate with the people in the electorate of Corio. This is something I will work on over time, for now I will choose those that effect the electorate directly.
My Platform
i) Centrelink reform trials in Corio electorate
I want to reform Centrelink nationwide; however, such large changes require a body of evidence to prove their efficacy. As such, I propose a trial of the changes within the Corio electorate as it contains three of the top ten most disadvantaged suburbs of Victoria.
The purpose would be to determine the effects on the local economy, job availability, wages, work hours, and quality of life.
The trial would involve:
- Raising Centrelink payments to above the poverty level.
- Removing Mutual Obligations.
- Making job seeking services voluntary.
- Price control measures to prevent gouging.
It would be restricted to those living in the electorate before the trial begins, and newly arrived migrants that may not have a choice in where they live. There would be other optional implementations based on progressing results, such as four-day work weeks, or later expansion to a universal basic income.
ii) Legalised recreational cannabis trial in Corio electorate
I support Legalising, Taxing, and Regulating recreational cannabis use for adults. The ACT has decriminalised possession but nowhere in Australia is it legal, no jurisdiction has been able to determine the benefits of legalisation. The most recent attempt in the Legalising Cannabis Bill 2023 by Greens Senator David Shoebridge has been rejected by the Senate.
I propose a trial of adult recreational cannabis legalisation in the Corio electorate. The purpose of which would be to determine the effects on the economy, legal system, and health within the region.
The trial would involve:
- Establishing a framework of regulation and licensing for cultivation and related business operations.
- Establishing a framework to distribute the proceeds of taxation to public health and education institutions within the electorate.
- Determine appropriate law enforcement actions to work within the trial parameters.
There would potentially be a need for financial assistance in establishing a legal market, as financial institutions may consider it risky and be hesitant to lend. If successful, Corio could become the epicentre of a new legal industry.