Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Betting machine gamble sours (9 Mar 2024)

Plans to install electronic betting machines at a Floreat pub were knocked back by Cambridge councillors last week. Sporting Globe franchisee Tim Deavin wants to install two TAB terminals inside the recently-opened bar and grill in Floreat Forum, but his plan drew stiff opposition from nearby residents and Curtin MP Kate Chaney. Council staff recommended councillors approve a change of use for the pub site to allow betting machines, arguing in a report that they were "incidental" to the pub's main function and would not have a substantial impact on the surrounding area. "A TAB betting agency currently operates in the Floreat Forum and the Town does not have any record of complaints," they wrote. But at a meeting last week, local mum Grace Brooks said she was concerned "the full social impact" had not been properly assessed. "It is a very social area for families, particularly after school and in the evenings," she told councillors. "The fact that it is literally across the road from a primary school wasn't considered." In January, Ms Chaney told the POST she was "deeply concerned" by the betting machine proposal. "This venue isn't a traditional pub," she said at the time. "It's located in a shopping centre precinct, with alfresco dining, a children's playground nearby, and a kids' selection on its menu." Councillors voted 6-2 after a brief discussion to side with the objectors, despite an appeal by councillor Michael Le Page. "I've never gambled or even entered a TAB," he said. "But, as with alcohol and tobacco, gambling is legal in this country." The council's decision could be appealed to the State Administrative Tribunal.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Chaney to seek re-election (8 Mar 2024)

Kate Chaney, a prominent community independent and the first so called “teal” to announce her candidacy for the next election, represents a significant shift in Australian politics. Holding the Curtin seat with just under 30% of the primary vote, Chaney's commitment to direct accountability and her critical stance on the Liberal Party's direction under leaders like Scott Morrison and Peter Dutton have resonated deeply with her electorate. Emphasising policies over politics, Chaney advocates for immediate action on climate change, rejecting nuclear power in favour of Australia's abundant wind and solar resources. Her approach to politics—focusing on long-term, sensible policies and direct community engagement—challenges traditional party allegiances and offers a fresh perspective on representation. As the election looms, Chaney's advocacy for renewable energy, affordable housing, support for women, and tackling the cost of living highlights her as a key figure in the debate over Australia's future direction.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Independent Kate Chaney confirms she will run for Curtin again (8 Mar 2024)

Independent Kate Chaney has announced her candidacy for the Curtin seat, challenging the Liberal Party's Tom White in a bid to maintain the shift towards teal independents seen in the 2022 election. Focusing on integrity in politics, emissions reduction, and tax reform, Chaney criticises the current Liberal leadership for being divisive and not reflective of Curtin's values.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

6PR Radio interview with Kate Chaney (8 Mar 2024)

Kate Chaney, the independent member for Curtin, has confirmed her decision to recontest the next federal election in 2025, marking a significant move in Australian politics. Her initial victory in 2022, influenced by the electorate's dissatisfaction with Scott Morrison, showcased the changing dynamics within historically conservative areas. Chaney's stance against Peter Dutton's nuclear energy strategy and her advocacy for immediate decarbonisation with economically viable renewables highlight her commitment to addressing climate change and economic sustainability. Despite the challenges of balancing parliamentary duties with family life, Chaney remains dedicated to her role, advocating for real-time donation disclosures and tax system reforms. Criticised by some for her voting record, Chaney emphasises her focus on substantive issues over political gamesmanship, aiming to represent her electorate's interests faithfully. As the election approaches, her position on key policies and her response to community engagement continue to define her as a pivotal figure in the shift towards more independent and values-driven representation in Australian politics.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Kate Chaney says Liberals haven’t learnt their lesson as she gears up for second election (8 Mar 2024)

Kate Chaney, the independent MP for Curtin, is set to contest her seat again, highlighting the Liberal Party's failure to align with the moderate values of her electorate, particularly on climate change. Chaney criticises the party's lack of progress since her 2022 victory, where she secured a significant primary vote amidst a broader rejection of the Liberals in Western Australia. Her stance is not just about opposition; Chaney is proactive, contributing to a detailed report on achieving net-zero emissions in her constituency. Chaney's aspirations reach beyond environmental advocacy, aiming for substantial political reform. She sees value in a hung parliament, advocating for it as a means to force major parties to compromise on key issues like political integrity and climate policies. Her approach to political donations, practising real-time disclosure, sets a benchmark for transparency, underscoring her commitment to accountability. Her critique extends to the broader policy debates, including tax reforms and political donations, where she calls for a more nuanced, comprehensive discussion. Chaney's efforts reflect a drive for a more transparent, accountable, and responsive political landscape, emphasising long-term national interests over partisan politics.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

ABC Radio Interview with Kate Chaney (8 Mar 2024)

Kate Chaney, the trailblazing independent MP for Curtin, has announced her intent to run in the next election, positioning herself as a pivotal voice for change and continuity among the community independents. With a remarkable initial win under her belt, Chaney stands out for her commitment to direct accountability to her electorate over party politics. Her forward-looking stance on key issues, including the contentious debate on nuclear power, showcases her dedication to representing her community's values. Amidst discussions on political longevity and the impact of leadership figures like Scott Morrison and Peter Dutton, Chaney's advocacy for sensible, balanced policies marks her as a significant figure in the evolving political landscape, challenging traditional party dynamics and championing the voices of her constituents in Curtin.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Power, passion and finding a pathway (8 Mar 2024)

Kate Chaney, independent Member for Curtin, was spotlighted in the context of the Pathways to Politics for Women program, emphasising the negative impact of prioritising winning over contributing within the political domain. At the Perth launch of the program, aimed at diversifying the political talent pool and encouraging more women to engage in politics, Chaney shared her perspectives alongside other influential figures like Dr. Carmen Lawrence. In This program, supported by the Trawalla Foundation and various universities, provides comprehensive training to women in politics, covering a broad range of skills from media training to policy development, to enhance their effectiveness and resilience in the political arena. Chaney's involvement and commentary underline the program's commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable political landscape, reflecting the broader societal need for diverse voices and ethical leadership in policy-making processes.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Indigenous leader accuses NT government of ‘clear conflict of interest’ with online gambling industry (8 Mar 2024)

Kate Chaney criticises the NT government's online gambling regulation approach, highlighting the need for a national regulator amidst concerns over conflicts of interest and the effectiveness of the proposed Racing and Wagering Act 2024. The debate underscores tensions between economic benefits and social responsibility in Australia's gambling industry.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

For an independent to succeed in Forrest, the community must find its position: Chaney (7 Mar 2024)

Kate Chaney's talk at ECU South West, organised by Voices for Forrest, showcased significant community interest in an independent candidate for the upcoming federal election. Emphasising the importance of addressing local issues distinct to Forrest, Chaney's experience in Curtin highlighted the necessity for bespoke electoral strategies. Reflecting on the success of teal independents in 2022, largely in urban areas, Chaney attributed the origins of this movement to regional initiatives, underscoring the potential for community-driven change if there's sufficient momentum.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Global gambling company to leave Australia’s peak lobbying group (1 Mar 2024)

Entain exits Australia's gambling lobby amid ad reform debates, reflecting industry tension over proposed betting ad restrictions. The move, underscored by independent MP Kate Chaney's advocacy for an online gambling ad ban, signals a significant shift in the gambling sector's approach to advertising and political influence. This development highlights the ongoing dialogue between government, industry, and community interests in regulating gambling's societal impact.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus faces Senate obstacle on Administrative Appeals Tribunal reform (29 Feb 2024)

Amidst efforts to reform the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, Independent MP Kate Chaney and key crossbenchers challenge the government's bill, advocating for stronger measures against political interference. The proposed Administrative Review Tribunal seeks to ensure merit-based appointments, yet faces Senate obstacles, highlighting the complexities of legal reform and the need for bipartisan support.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

‘We want to put in place electoral reform that lasts’: Anthony Albanese on donations (27 Feb 2024)

Independent MP Kate Chaney champions electoral reform, advocating for real-time disclosure of political donations ahead of the Dunkley byelection and beyond. This move calls for lasting reforms, aims to enhance transparency and integrity within Australia's electoral system, highlighting a bipartisan approach to establishing a more accountable political landscape.

Read More
Alan Hewitt Alan Hewitt

UWA politics program for women (26 Feb 2024)

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is set to launch the Pathways to Politics Program for Women, a pioneering initiative aimed at empowering women from diverse backgrounds to pursue their political ambitions and excel as leaders. This program, a collaboration between the Centre for Public Value UWA, the UWA Public Policy Institute, the Trawalla Foundation, Women’s Leadership Institute Australia, and the University of Melbourne, seeks to address the underrepresentation of women in political roles by providing them with the necessary skills, mentoring, and support.

Read More