Laura Chipp - Democrats

1.What has been the reason(s) for you running in 2007?

Since I was born, I was always put in the position of having to give my political opinion about any ethical, political and moral issues that arose. The main reason for this was because my father is the late founder of the Australian Democrats, Don Chipp. From a very early age I was interested in politics and always dreamed of being elected to parliament and give my perspective on unfair parliamentary practices and bring back some commonsense and social justice. However, very recently due to the large shift to conservatism, intolerance and discriminatory legislative practices, I’ve felt that now is the time for me to get my voice and Australian Democrat policies heard because many important issues are being neglected by the political parties.

2.What have been the positives about being such a ‘young’ candidate?

I feel that I am helping to push youth issues on the agenda in the political landscape and because I am younger, I feel I can represent the youth and give a voice to the very important issues that they face. Many youth issues are being overlooked in parliament. Some issues that I see – and have discussed with many of my friends – that are very important to the youth are the environment, VSU, increase in full fee university placements – which makes it harder to access cheaper education – mental health and depression, poverty alleviation and same sex entitlements.

3.What have been the negatives about being such a ‘young’ candidate?

People are constantly underestimating you. They choose to only see your age, rather than listening to what you are saying about what you can offer to the electorate.

4.Do you think you can win?

I’m very enthusiastic, but a realist. I am campaigning to win, although the odds may be against me.

5.Most inspiring part of the campaign for you so far?

Being able to raise awareness and promote important issues that my constituency and I think are important which are constantly being neglected by the other political parties. For instance, it is so exciting to be able to talk about Democrat’s policies which focus on social justice issues, for example, poverty alleviation is a very important issue to me which is constantly neglected by the two major parties. Politics is not just about managing the economy. It’s also about helping people, particularly those less fortunate who find it harder to help themselves. It is so inspiring to think that by campaigning on these issues, change may happen.

6.Most embarrassing moment so far?

Generally, things have been really good for me on the campaign trail. People have been really nice and supportive in listening to me, and what I’m about. The thing I find most embarrassing is the feeling that your constantly tooting your own horn and marketing yourself, which I find very hard… but it’s the only way to get out there and tell people who you are and what your about… so it gets less embarrassing.

7.Has the mainstream media given you a ‘fair go’?

Yes they have, but generally the stories have been human interest stories about being my father’s daughter. I am very proud of who I am, but it would be great if the media would also focus on my campaign platforms, what I stand for and what I will do for my electorate.

8.You’ve become PM and have 8 Cabinet spots up for grabs…catch is, they must be filled with Australian celebrities. Who have you chosen and why?

Very hard question. Cliché, but I would prefer to have all the cabinet spots given to my fellow members of the Young Australian Democrats. They are all articulate, fun and fantastic people who really care about the future direction of our society.