Independent candidate for Forrest Ross Slater has vowed to offer a real alternative for voters at the July 2 federal election, noting he is not obliged to follow a party political line.
“I stand for people not politics,” Mr Slater said.
Mr Slater, a former City of Bunbury councillor, said aged care will be a key federal election issue.
He said people in the South West are still waiting for Canberra to deliver on a credible action plan for seniors.
“I believe the first priority is to ensure that seniors are offered a full range of alternative accommodation in major regional centres,” he said.
“This means that planners and the federal government funding bodies need to think and act for seniors’ welfare.
“The supply of new seniors’ accommodation, including high rise units, village style housing and lifestyle alternatives, all need to keep up with the growing demand.”
Mr Slater also said that he will support an increase in funding to chaplaincy services in the region, another area where he believes demand has outstripped supply.
“I believe the federal budget has a core responsibility to ensure the well-being and sound mental health of all our citizens” he said.
Last year Mr Slater wrote a controversial letter to local newspapers confirming his stance against gay marriage.
“A marriage licence, just like a driver’s license, is an official permission and a privilege – not a right,” he wrote.
