Ben Smith, CEO of the Mornington Community Support Centre, has announced his candidacy as an independent for the federal seat of Flinders in next year’s election. Launching his campaign on Saturday, Smith addressed a crowd of enthusiastic supporters, highlighting his vision for equity and improved services across the region.

Standing on a platform focused on better health services, improved roads, addressing cost-of-living pressures, and housing affordability, Smith believes Flinders is a winnable seat for an independent voice.

“I wouldn’t have put my hand up unless I thought I could win. We have a really genuine community here, and they want proper representation,”

Smith said in an interview with RPP FM.

Criticising the major parties for adhering to party lines, Smith stressed the importance of independent representation.

“The reality is every single time the major parties have voted this year, they voted on party lines. Our representative is not excluded from that. People want to make sure their voice is heard, and currently, they feel that’s not the case. We’re hopeful we can actually succeed here.”

Smith will face Liberal MP Zoe McKenzie, a widely popular incumbent, in what is shaping up to be a competitive contest for the Flinders electorate.

This story was originally reported by RPP FM and repurposed by STPL News with permission.

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