A FORUM in Swan Hill will give local voters a further glimpse into the policy platforms of the candidates contesting the seat of Mallee this election.
Incumbent Nationals MP Andrew Broad, Greens candidate Helen Healy and Citizens Electoral Council candidate Chris Lahy will attend the forum, which will be moderated by The Guardian general manager Rob Duffield.
Labor candidate Lydia Senior was unable to attend but has planned to submit a statement and respond to questions.
Each candidate will be able to speak on issues important to the electorate and there will be an opportunity for questions to be taken from the audience.
Ms Healy ran for the Greens in the 2013 election but this will be her first political forum.
“I’m very keen to receive questions from the Swan Hill audience that show they are looking at ways to have more progressive government in the Mallee,” she said, adding that the NBN and water quality issues would be high on the agenda.
Three-time Mallee electoral candidate and Lake Boga resident Chris Lahy said those in attendance would get an authentic view of the candidates and their beliefs.
“I think forums are a good opportunity for candidates to get across questions that don’t get asked,” he said.
“The audience can see who they’re dealing with. You soon find out who is transparent or fake.”
Member for Mallee Andrew Broad was involved in three forums during his last election campaign and said he was looking forward to the Swan Hill event.
“Ultimately representation is about being available and accountable and that’s exactly what we’re trying to be,” he said.
The Guardian’s federal election forum will be held on Tuesday, June 21 at the Swan Hill Town Hall from 7pm.
Members of the public are encouraged to attend.
