By Mary Aldred
AS WE approach the end of 2025, I want to thank Bass Coast Post readers for your engagement and feedback with me as your federal member. Over the last six months, my number one goal has been to do my best job for our community.
In Canberra, I have spoken up on a number of issues of national significance. These have stemmed from conversations with local residents in Monash. One example is the illegal tobacco trade. From only understanding some of the broader issues around it, within a few months I’ve immersed myself in all aspects of it because local residents approached me with real concern about the safety of our community.
AS WE approach the end of 2025, I want to thank Bass Coast Post readers for your engagement and feedback with me as your federal member. Over the last six months, my number one goal has been to do my best job for our community.
In Canberra, I have spoken up on a number of issues of national significance. These have stemmed from conversations with local residents in Monash. One example is the illegal tobacco trade. From only understanding some of the broader issues around it, within a few months I’ve immersed myself in all aspects of it because local residents approached me with real concern about the safety of our community.
Other national issues I’ve pursued include the cost of living, and helping those across the Monash electorate that are really struggling right now. Every food bank I speak to locally has seen demand for their services increase significantly. That is why having a strong economy matters. That is why it is important to address housing affordability, inflation and interest rates.
Since my election in May as your local member, there have been eight parliamentary sitting weeks in Canberra. Whether I’m speaking about a community group that has shone in their service to our region, or raising an issue on behalf of veterans, or coastal inundation – every time I rise to speak in the House of Representatives I do so with the immediate hopes, challenges and aspirations of the electorate of Monash at the forefront of my mind.
There have been some recent achievements that I’m particularly proud of, and one of those is securing $1.7 million in federal funding to fix the Stewart Road Bridge at Kernot.
In the electorate, I have continued what I promised to do at the election, and that is continue with my listening posts, which I now call mobile offices right across Monash. In a region that counts around 40% of its towns under 1,000, I strongly believe it's important to travel to residents particularly in smaller communities. I’ve been able to assist veterans, single parents, and pensioners with aged care challenges get the help they need. It’s also important to hear ideas and feedback from our local community.
Since my election in May as your local member, there have been eight parliamentary sitting weeks in Canberra. Whether I’m speaking about a community group that has shone in their service to our region, or raising an issue on behalf of veterans, or coastal inundation – every time I rise to speak in the House of Representatives I do so with the immediate hopes, challenges and aspirations of the electorate of Monash at the forefront of my mind.
There have been some recent achievements that I’m particularly proud of, and one of those is securing $1.7 million in federal funding to fix the Stewart Road Bridge at Kernot.
In the electorate, I have continued what I promised to do at the election, and that is continue with my listening posts, which I now call mobile offices right across Monash. In a region that counts around 40% of its towns under 1,000, I strongly believe it's important to travel to residents particularly in smaller communities. I’ve been able to assist veterans, single parents, and pensioners with aged care challenges get the help they need. It’s also important to hear ideas and feedback from our local community.
"It’s important to build strong and collegiate relationships with colleagues on all sides of the chamber."
In the Parliament, I’ve taken a deliberate attitude of demonstrating respect and courtesy to all of my colleagues, and 99% of the time that’s been reciprocated. It’s important to build strong and collegiate relationships with colleagues on all sides of the chamber. In less formal settings, I’ve enjoyed participating in the early morning social basketball game at 6.30am on Tuesday sitting weeks that includes members of the cross bench, opposition MPs and government ministers.
It’s been an honour to have been appointed as Deputy Chair of the Communications, Sport and Arts Committee, Co-Chair of the Australian People Coalition Policy Committee, and as a member of the Speaker’s Panel, which has been an excellent way to fast track my learning of the standing orders and House procedures.
The best part of my job is getting out in our local community. Visiting farmers markets, listening to veterans, supporting our small businesses and working with local environment groups.
To everyone across Monash – I’m your local federal member, and I’m always here to help. Happy Christmas.