Arkaroola co owner/manager Doug Spriggs, Rowan and
Shadow Environment Minister Greg Hunt discussing the
uniqueness of the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary
I have always believed in the fundamental rights of individuals and the right for people to live life as they choose so long as it does not impinge on the rights of others. While encouraging individual responsibility government should ensure those who are not able to look after themselves are given dignified support and the opportunity to make the most of their lives. We must as members of parliament, always promote tolerance, openness and fair-mindedness.
Education is the key to secure the welfare of individuals and it should be one of the first priorities of our nation. A good education provides the mechanism by which we are able to break down the barriers of generational disadvantage essentially providing a fair go for all. Neither, geographical or socioeconomic disadvantage should be tolerated as legitimate barriers to education. Difficulties in this area are amplified in regional and rural Australia.
Our traditional agricultural industries promise to keep performing for Australia in a world where food and water will be at a premium. Government should not be afraid to support these industries which will need significant investment in new science. Innovation has always been the backbone of Australian agriculture. It will continue to be so.
Business, particularly small business provides the economic foundations for our nation, it must be given an environment in which it can flourish. We should vigorously question any moves to place further unnecessary burdens on this sector and support policies that encourage businesses to establish in regional areas. Jobs are essential to health and wellbeing and only through a vibrant business sector can we have high employment and a high standard of living.
I have a strong interest in the health sector generated from my experience with hospital boards. This sector will continue to provide challenges for all governments as our population continues to age. Like business we should be wary of layers of unnecessary bureaucracy and compliance, which erode dollars available for actual service delivery. Local communities must have a relevant voice in the way health services are delivered.
Australia is a stable and wealthy democracy and has a benefactor role beyond what one might expect from a country of this size. As well as an ethical obligation to improve the economy of developing nations it is in our best interest as conflict is often the bedfellow of poverty.
We have the important task as politicians of identifying injustices and taking the opportunities for progress in our society. It is an exciting time to be in politics and I take the privilege with great responsibility.
In parliament I have a number of duties of various committees including Deputy Chair of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Education and Employment, Member of the Joint Standing Committee on Migration, Secretary of the Coalition Rural and Regional Affairs, Agriculture, Infrastructure, Environment and Water Policy Committee, Member of the Coalition Education an Industry Committee and Member of the Coalition Communications Committee.
Prior to entering parliament I was a farmer and had a heavy involvement in agricultural research. Coupled with a long involvement in community organisations with leadership roles in Apex, hospital boards, football and other sporting clubs, CFS and agricultural organisations I have a good understanding of what makes regional Australia tick.
On a personal level I enjoy music and played in a rock and roll band in my younger years. I have a pilots licence and enjoy getting out on the water for a days fishing. I am married to Teresa, a teacher and we live in the Kimba district on Eyre Peninsula, we have three young adult children who have all chosen professions in engineering and science. I have a close relationship with my children and know how important the family unit is to the health of the nation.