Pittwater Life June 2023 Issue

News
‘My first year on Mackellar w
Independent Federal MP Dr Sophie Scamps
outlines the progress she’s made on behalf of
the residents of Mackellar in the 12 months
since her election. Interview by Nigel Wall
Q: Congratulations on your
one-year anniversary… tell
us, what’s been the biggest
eye-opener from the past 12
months?
The biggest surprise to
me has been the rate and
extent to which change can
happen in Parliament and
how quickly our nation can
respond to important issues
– if the political will is there.
The past 12 months has seen
our country take enormous
strides on important issues
like the climate crisis, international
relations and alliances,
and the transition to a
renewable energy economy. It
feels like Australia is back on
the international stage again
and it feels good to be there.
Q: What has been your most
satisfying achievement?
Prior to the last election
two issues were clear front
runners for our community
– urgent action on climate
change and restoring integrity
to federal politics.
So, I’ve focused on negotiating
with the government
to improve our climate laws,
including enshrining our net
zero 2050 target in law and
strengthening the safeguard
mechanism to ensure our
biggest polluters deliver real
emissions cuts. I’m proud
that Australia is finally on the
road to addressing climate
change.
At the same time, I’m very
proud to have voted in line
with community expectations
for a strong National Anti-
Corruption Commission and
to further push the issue of
integrity in politics with my
‘Ending Jobs for Mates’ Private
LISTENING TO THE COMMUNITY: Dr Sophie Scamps says local issues are
front and centre of her focus as she enters her second year in parliament.
Member’s Bill. This Bill aims
to end the cronyism and ‘jobs
for mates’ culture that has led
to many Australians losing
trust in federal politics.
More locally, it was very
pleasing that after advocating
strongly to all levels of
government that the new NSW
Government listened to my
concerns over the flooding
of the Wakehurst Parkway
and promised to deliver extra
funding for flood mitigation
works.
Q: What is the most pressing
local issue?
People tell me repeatedly
that cost-of-living pressures,
particularly the lack of affordable
housing in the area,
is the major issue of concern.
It is heartbreaking to witness
young families and individu-
18 JUNE 2023
The Local Voice Since 1991