Media Release: Coal Australia Powers Local Debate with Federal Election Candidates in Capricornia
Coal Australia’s CEO Stuart Bocking moderated the event, which was hosted at CocoBrew Rockhampton.
“The event provided locals with the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates on their plans to tackle cost of living pressures, the importance of coal in the energy security debate, and how policy decisions will impact jobs, housing affordability, and regional development in their communities”, Mr Bocking said.
The panel featured sitting MP Michelle Landry from the LNP, Emily Mawson representing Labor, and Mick Jones from the Greens. Senator Matt Canavan was also present, invited in his capacity as a local and LNP Senator for Queensland. Labor Senator Murray Watt was unable to take part due to prior commitments.
Energy security, housing affordability, cost of living pressures, skills shortages, and the challenges of health care services in regional Queensland were among the key issues debated by the candidates.
Michelle Landry outlined the coalition’s stance on the future of coal mining communities in central Queensland, telling the audience “we want the sector (coal) to keep running for as long as possible”. Labor’s Emily Mawson also voiced support for coal, sharing her personal connection as the daughter of a coal miner and expressing pride in the vital role coal has played in supporting the local community.
The recent blackouts in Spain and Portugal were a topic of discussion given their heavy reliance on renewables. When asked how Labor’s plans could avert a similar crisis in Australia, Ms Mawson stated “let’s be clear — our plan is to reach 82% renewables, backed by gas and batteries.”
On the energy debate, Mick Jones for the Greens told voters “we need a real plan for central Queensland”, and how the focus needs to remain on “providing jobs across all industries”.
Senator Canavan expressed his deep pride in Rockhampton’s Fitzroy River being selected to host rowing and canoeing events for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
These points were quickly countered by Mr Jones, who stated “we’re not going to bask in the glory of a housing crisis”.
Ms Landry was asked by an audience member to outline what she had done for the local community, and she pointed to her record of delivering over $7 billion in local investment, including her role in the “enormous battle” to secure funding for the Rockhampton Base Hospital car park.
Mr Bocking helped facilitate a lively discussion between the candidates, which included some pointed interjections and questions from the attendees. The Coal Australia merchandise again proved popular with many caps, t-shirts, and stubby holders finding a new home.
The Capricornia event marks the third and final Meet the Candidates event hosted by Coal Australia across regional New South Wales and Queensland, following successful forums in Shellharbour and Singleton.
As the leading advocate for engagement with our coal mining communities, Coal Australia is pleased to have contributed to Australia’s democratic process in the lead-up to the May 3 election.
We extend our best wishes to all the candidates who participated in these important local events.
About Coal Australia
Coal Australia is a not-for-profit membership organisation. We represent the people and companies committed to building a secure future for Australian coal.
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