General News
19 May, 2026
Nationals to host local forum
Federal member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster will be hosting a forum this Friday to hear from Central Goldfields families.
Joined by the National Party of Australia leader Matt Canavan and deputy leader Darren Chester, Dr Webster said this is the first of many forums across Mallee she will be hosting to hear from families juggling cost of living, healthcare access and childcare challenges.
“With Matt Canavan and Darren Chester, both of whom have been very involved with me in our policy development for families, I thought Maryborough could be ‘first cab off the rank’,” she said.
“I am also engaged with local families who tell me about their difficulties accessing childcare, so I wanted to ensure mums and dads are heard on their challenges juggling parenting, work and the diabolical cost-of-living.
“Our children are our future, so I want to ensure families are growing and thriving without mum and dad frazzled at trying to make ends meet.”
Attendees are invited to share their experience and concerns with Dr Webster, with proposed federal policy ideas to follow.
“The forum will be a guided discussion listening to those attending, then walking through some policy ideas we are considering federally that could help mums and dads spend more time where they prefer, work or home, to suit their values and lifestyle,” Dr Webster said.
“I am really keen to see young families attend, which is why I staged the forum at 9 am after school drop-off. I acknowledge there are small business people and other workers who won’t be able to attend, so I urge locals to email me if they can’t make it, with their thoughts because I want everyone to be heard.”
The National’s Central Goldfields Families Forum will be held at the Maryborough Community Hub on Friday, May 22 at 9 am.
Those who wish to attend are advised to RSVP at anne.webster. mp@aph.gov.au