My name is Joanna Rzetelski. I have created this Independent Candidate site with two objectives in mind: firstly as a hub to promote independent candidates and their election efforts, secondly to make it easier for the electors to find information on who the independent candidates in their district are, what they stand for and how they are planning to represent them in Parliament.

I was an independent candidate myself for my district for the Federal and State Elections and have first- hand experience on how challenging it is; especially if you are not a celebrity, are not backed up by the powerful people and their advice and have a very limited budget. I decided to stand for elections as an independent candidate because I was concerned about the state of our politics (and still am!), the impact they have on our community and on our country. I was concerned that our dual political system prevents all Australians from being heard, because our voice only counts if expressed through one of the major parties. I was concerned about the lack of political choices and lack of diversity in our Parliament. Liberal or Labor. Labor or Liberal. And so it goes…

Things have changed since my electoral campaigns. There are more political choices now. The signs are strong for the independent representation (although we may not always agree with the caliber!). According to some polls 73 percent of undecided voters are considering voting independent and the current momentum for independent candidates is unlike anything seen before – the independents are not restrained to a party position!

Consider very carefully the candidate’s platform , their motivations and how well you can trust them in representing your community.

So – let’s vote!

Happy voting.

Joanna Rzetelski