I’ve just wrapped up my latest seasonal road trip across Fairfax, travelling through Coolum, Peregian Springs, Eumundi, and Woombye to speak directly with locals about the issues that matter most.
I’ve continued running these seasonal road trips ever since first being elected back in 2016 because they provide an invaluable opportunity to hear from people who might not otherwise reach out to my office – people in every corner of our community who make Fairfax such a great place to call home.
These trips are one of the most rewarding parts of my job. They’re a chance to step outside Parliament and hear what’s really happening on the ground. From families feeling cost-of-living pressures to small businesses working hard to keep people employed.
My main takeaway was that the cost of living continues to bite. This is in line with a recent ANZ-Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence report, which found 45% of Australians say their families are ‘worse off’ financially than this time last year, while just a fifth (20%) say they are ‘better off’.
As part of the road trip, I hosted a local business roundtable in Coolum with representatives from Richardson & Wrench, Bendigo Bank, White’s IGA, Bell Potter, Coolum Business and Tourism, and Coolum Beer Company, along with many other local operators who took time out of their day to share their insights.
The discussion was constructive, candid and full of ideas to strengthen our local economy and support jobs on the Sunshine Coast.
To everyone who came along or stopped for a chat, I say a massive thank you. Your feedback shapes my work in Canberra and keeps me focused on what matters most: serving the people of Fairfax.
Get in touch
If I or my office can be of assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out on (07) 5479 2800 or at ted.obrien.mp@aph.gov.au.