Fremantle Candidates in a Great Debate
Three candidates for the WA seat of Fremantle will face off next week in a lively debate expected to be dominated by climate change, the environment, housing, cost of living pressures and the local economy.
Hosted by the University of Notre Dame Australia, ‘The Great Debate: Local Leadership at a Crossroads’ will give voters the chance to hear from the three declared candidates for the State Electorate of Fremantle.
Labor Minister Simone McGurk, independent Kate Hulett and Greens candidate Felicity Townsend will outline their plans to tackle the challenges and opportunities facing Fremantle and the State.
Notre Dame’s Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Sciences, Law and Business, Martin Drum, said Fremantle would be a fascinating seat to watch, with all three known candidates having a strong following.
He said the event would give candidates the opportunity to present their credentials and outline their vision for the future of the harbour city.
“This does come at a pivotal moment for Fremantle with some major economic changes taking place,” Professor Drum said. “We expect our candidates to address that.
“There will be a myriad of options this time around, from major and minor parties and with independents running.
“There are always questions about what makes Fremantle unique and how we preserve this, and that taps into everything – from heritage and tourism to hospitality and local facilities. We expect the candidates to understand this and to have a vision for the future that relates to it.”
The debate will be moderated by Professor Drum, former Supreme Court and Federal Court Judge, the Hon Michael Barker KC, and Fremantle Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer Chrissie Maus.
Audience members will be given the chance to ask the candidates questions before they head to the polls on 8 March.
Ms Maus said the Fremantle Chamber of Commerce believed democracy should be as engaging as a great debate, and maybe even a little entertaining.
“Hosting this State Electorate for Freo debate isn’t just about giving candidates a stage; it’s about giving voters a front-row seat to our future,” she said.
“No scripted soundbites, no political sidestepping — just real conversations that matter. Real talk, real stakes— let’s make it count. Because informed voters make the best headlines.”
The Great Debate is being held at Tannock Hall on Wednesday 19 February from 6:30pm – 8:00pm. To register, click here.
Media contact: media@nd.edu.au
