Labor and LNP candidates for Mackay have pulled out of a major community election forum at the last minute, raising obvious questions about their commitment to the community and democracy.

One Nation candidate for Mackay Kylee Stanton said the community deserved answers from Labor’s Belinda Hassan and the LNP’s Nigel Dalton.

“The people of Mackay need a better answer than ‘conflicting commitments’ about why these candidates won’t face them and engage them,” Ms Stanton said.

“This forum, kindly organised by the Newlife Church, was going to be livestreamed to up to 2500 people. How disappointing for so many Mackay voters that these two major party candidates couldn’t be bothered turning up.

“This sort of forum is what democracy is really about: candidates presenting themselves and their policies, debating the issues and proposing solutions, and honestly addressing the concerns and questions raised by voters for all to see so they can make an informed choice at this election.

“People in Mackay deserve answers about escalating youth crime, the cost-of-living crisis, housing availability and affordability, our regional health services, and our neglected regional road network. It’s a shame that candidates for the major parties appear to have none, and aren’t prepared to engage the voters of Mackay.

“One Nation is the only party contesting this state election with a policy to defend and enhance democracy, which includes holding more town hall debates to give Queenslanders more opportunities to directly engage their elected representatives and hold them to account.

“If I’m elected with the support of voters in Mackay, I’ll hold regular community forums and town halls across our electorate. I plan to be an effective representative by going out and listening to the people who’ve trusted me with their votes.

“Despite the Labor and LNP no-shows, I’ll be attending the Newlife Church forum. I’m looking forward to talking with my community about the issues which matter at this election.”

Contact Kylee Stanton - 0447 223 902