Latest News • James Newbury MP

In Parliament

Friday, 18 September 2020

Second Reading Speech - COVID-19 Omnibus (Emergency Measures) and Other Acts Amendment Bill 2020

‘COVID-19 Omnibus (Emergency Measures) and Other Acts Amendment Bill 2020’ Friday, 18 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): This government has a simple message to 5 million Melburnians: Labor is holding you hostage in your homes, they are stunting your children’s development and they are destroying private sector businesses and jobs because of 300 active coronavirus […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 17 September 2020

Adjournment - Damage of Rental Moratoriums

DAMAGE OF RENTAL MORATORIUMS Thursday, 17 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): My Adjournment is to the Treasurer and the action I seek is for the Treasurer to outline to landlords, property investors and the real estate industry in my community what support is available to them following the State Government’s extension of rental protections through […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Impact on Children

IMPACT ON CHILDREN Thursday, 17 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Young Victorian children are hurting, and many are being left behind. The damage caused to our young children by the State Government’s restrictions is unconscionable and unforgivable. As Julie recently wrote: ‘we really need to know what the plan is for children … This would […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Sole Traders

SOLE TRADERS ARE HURTING Thursday, 17 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): The lack of support for sole traders in Victoria is wrong and unjust. The measly sole-trader support package announced by the State Government has missed the mark. Only 33,000 of Victoria’s 412,000 sole traders are eligible. A staggering 92 per cent of the state’s […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Democracy & Institutions

DEMOCRACY AND INSTITUTIONS Thursday, 17 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): This government is systematically dismantling Victorian democracy and its institutions. Parliament has become occasional, cabinet has been forgotten, and Labor’s own caucus has been cast aside. And dangerously, the Premier is selectively choosing which laws apply to him, saying recently that human rights laws are […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - So Called Roadmap

SO CALLED ROADMAP Thursday, 17 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): The State Government’s so called ‘Coronavirus roadmap to reopening’ signs the death warrant for thousands of Victorian businesses and jobs. And it is a sledgehammer to our sanity. Small businesses are being destroyed because the Premier has implemented policy that cuts the private sector off […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Overseas Victorians

OVERSEAS VICTORIANS Thursday, 17 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): The State Government’s inability to manage hotel quarantine has not only caused the second coronavirus wave and the avoidable deaths of more than 700 Victorians but is also a major roadblock to overseas citizens returning home. Victorians have a right to return. As John has written: […]

In Parliament

Friday, 4 September 2020

Second Reading Speech - Public Health and Wellbeing Amendment

PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELLBEING AMENDMENT (STATE OF EMERGENCY EXTENSION AND OTHER MATTERS) BILL 2020 Friday, 4 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): The Premier is taking our State down a dangerous path. This Bill gives him that power. When the pandemic hit, Victorians gave the Premier their trust on the condition that we defeated the Coronavirus, […]

In Parliament

Adjournment - Kingston Action Team

KINGSTON ACTION TEAM Friday, 4 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): My Adjournment is to the Premier, and the action I seek is for the Premier to request that his departmental secretary investigate the involvement of former Premier Steve Bracks, who continues to receive departmental funding as a former Premier, in the registered association Kingston Action […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 3 September 2020

Members Statement - Brighton East Development

BRIGHTON EAST DEVELOPMENT Thursday, 3 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Many residents have written to me with concerns about the proposed development at 97–103 Thomas Street, Brighton East—the former Lees nursery site. As David wrote to me: ‘Developers are cashing in and targeting Bayside and neighbouring suburbs due to the demand for housing’. Maree has […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Hampton Roads

HAMPTON ROADS Thursday, 3 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Congratulations to the Hampton community. We have had a huge community win and the Beach Road bottleneck near Small Street in Hampton will be fixed; 1200 Bayside residents signed a petition calling for a fix after identifying that the bottleneck was causing unnecessary delays and havoc […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - New Street Brighton Development

NEW STREET, BRIGHTON, DEVELOPMENT Thursday, 3 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Brighton residents are angry about the New Street redevelopment demolition commencing during the harshest pandemic restrictions. As local resident Alec has written to me: ‘Beyond purely physical health, the mental hardship this will put us through as this demolition slowly grinds along day after […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Nepean Highway Noise Barriers

NEPEAN HIGHWAY NOISE BARRIERS Thursday, 3 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Despite constituents calling on the State Government to install proper noise mitigation barriers along the Brighton side of Nepean Highway, the Government has refused initial requests to fund and install these barriers. As Robyn recently wrote to me: ‘The old wooden fencing is inadequate […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Business Support Fund

BUSINESS SUPPORT FUND Thursday, 3 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Business is crippled. Livelihoods have been destroyed and jobs permanently lost. Whilst the Premier falsely promises that he supports small business, the State Labor Government has refused to help many businesses who have applied to the Business Support Fund. Business owners who question the policy, […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Brighton Electorate Volunteers

BRIGHTON ELECTORATE VOLUNTEERS Thursday, 3 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): The Rotary Club of Brighton, in partnership with the Brighton Covenant of Christian Churches and Brighton Primary School football club, have come together to support the staff at the Alfred Hospital and the Royal Melbourne Hospital. Over 1000 gratitude packs have been packed and prepared […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - COVID-19 Data

COVID-19 DATA Thursday, 3 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Victorians are being kept in the dark because the Premier refuses to release up-to-date data identifying where the Coronavirus is occurring. The community should know if there is an outbreak in their own locality. There is no doubt that the community is being kept in the […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Dendy Street Pedestrian Safety

DENDY STREET PEDESTRIAN SAFETY Thursday, 3 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): With two primary schools nearby, St Joan of Arc School and Brighton Beach Primary School, the pedestrian railway crossing at the Dendy Street and New Street roundabout in Brighton needs an urgent upgrade. Currently, there are no barriers to stop pedestrians from walking onto […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Brighton North Gas Supply

BRIGHTON NORTH GAS SUPPLY Thursday, 3 September 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): After dragging their feet Multinet Gas have begun work to repair infrastructure that will provide 60 Brighton North residents with gas when it rains. For the last year the infrastructure has degraded to the point of stopping delivery after every downpour. Victoria is suffering […]

Media Statements

Thursday, 9 July 2020

Joint Statement - Reports of Anti-Semitic Bullying at Brighton Secondary College

Joint Statement – Anti-Semitic Bullying 09 July 2020. Reports today in the Australian Jewish News of multiple incidents of anti-Semitic bullying at a State Secondary College once again highlight the systemic failures of the Victorian Department of Education under the Andrews Labor Government. Over a period of five years, two Jewish students at this school […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 17 June 2020

Constituency Question - New Street Public Housing Re-development

NEW STREET PUBLIC HOUSING REDEVELOPMENT Wednesday, 17 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (11:39): My constituency question is to the Premier, and I ask: can the Premier confirm that his government has appointed a Caulfield resident to chair the Brighton community consultative committee for the New Street public housing redevelopment? Brighton residents are angry about the […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Family Home Tax

FAMILY HOME TAX Wednesday, 17 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Every Victorian is under threat of a new tax on the family home, with the Treasurer considering replacing stamp duty with an annual tax of at least $4000 per house. One Minister has described Labor’s plan as ‘bigger than the GST’. Labor should come clean […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Elwood & COVID-19

ELWOOD & COVID-19 Wednesday, 17 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): The recent COVID-19 financial impact index compiled by analytics and actuarial consulting firm Taylor Fry shows that Elwood has been particularly hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic. With many in Elwood experiencing unemployment and underemployment, this has led to significant losses of income and difficulty […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Dance Studios & Theatre De La Danse

DANCE STUDIOS & THEATRE DE LA DANSE Wednesday, 17 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Community-based dance studios are struggling. One hundred and seventy Victorian dance studios recently wrote to the Premier saying: Many of our businesses are on a knife’s edge … A June survey of 140 studios shows an estimated $700,000 loss in revenue […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Brighton Savoy

BRIGHTON SAVOY Wednesday, 17 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Thousands of people are waiting to get married, but the state government’s refusal to provide a road map for the easing of restrictions blocks them. The iconic Brighton Savoy has been based in Brighton for over 50 years. Managing Director Michael Lee has said: ENOUGH IS […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 4 June 2020

Second Reading Speech - Wage Theft Bill 2020

WAGE THEFT BILL 2020 Thursday, 4 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (10:05): This is a very important issue, wage theft. It is something that I know we all collectively feel very strongly about. Throughout the debate I have been listening very closely to the issue, the principles and the many examples, and I draw the […]

In Parliament

Constituency Question - Planning

PLANNING Thursday, 4 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (11:52): My constituency question is to the Minister for Planning, and I ask: can the minister inform me whether State Government intends to introduce mandatory height limits in any of the major activity centres in the Brighton electorate? Mandatory height limits ensure that the community, council and […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Scouting

SCOUTING Thursday, 4 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): We know there are many benefits to Scouting; new empirical evidence through the recent Scouts Australia resilience survey proves it. Some of the results include that scouts have a healthier mental state than non-scouts by 13 per cent, are almost 12 per cent more likely to feel […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Community Sport

COMMUNITY SPORT Thursday, 4 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Community sports are much loved in my community. Parents and young people are itching to get back onto the field. Clubs have been working with local council and their peak bodies on ways to start training safely. This week a number of clubs across my community […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Yacht Club

BRIGHTON YACHT CLUB Thursday, 4 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): The Royal Brighton Yacht Club has a history going back to 1875. Last year it was awarded Victorian Yacht Club of the Year. Despite its strengths, the government’s closure of Middle Brighton Pier has put jobs at the club at risk. Funding safety upgrades to […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Recession

RECESSION Thursday, 4 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Victoria is in recession, and we are headed in the wrong direction. Yesterday’s National Accounts saw State Final Demand had shrunk by 0.1 per cent in the March quarter, after shrinking 0.2 per cent in the December quarter. Our State has been heavy-handed in dealing with the […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 3 June 2020

Adjournment - Middle Brighton Pier

MIDDLE BRIGHTON PIER Wednesday, 3 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (19:21): My adjournment matter this evening is for the Minister for Ports and Freight, and the action I seek is for the Minister to commit funding to the long-overdue safety upgrades at the historic Middle Brighton pier. Middle Brighton pier is a unique feature of […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Dendy Street Pedestrian Crossing

DENDY STREET PEDESTRIAN CROSSING Tuesday, 2 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Dendy Street pedestrian rail crossing is a busy thoroughfare with two primary schools nearby—St Joan of Arc and Brighton Beach primary schools. The crossing is constantly used by young children. Currently there are no safety features at the crossing. One local resident has written […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Brighton Electorate Crime

BRIGHTON ELECTORATE CRIME Tuesday, 2 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Numerous residents of Brighton, including in Albert, William and York streets, have reported increased crime. Residents have written: “I have a young child and fear for her …” And: “We … are being subject to car break-ins, private property walk-ins looking for opportunistic theft …” […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Beach Road, Brighton

BEACH ROAD, BRIGHTON Tuesday, 2 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Over 1,200 Brighton residents have petitioned the state government to fix the Beach Road bottleneck near Small Street in Hampton. It is causing unnecessary delays and havoc in surrounding streets. A number of home owners have contacted me distressed, with one saying: “… our amenity […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Small Business

SMALL BUSINESS Tuesday, 2 June 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. With economic data pointing to a deeper recession in Victoria than in other states, these businesses need support. There are still businesses that have waited up to two months to be processed for a state government Business Support […]

In the Media

Tuesday, 5 May 2020

Interview - 3AW Radio (5 May 2020)

Interview – 3AW Radio (5 May 2020) James spoke to Neil Mitchell on 3AW to say that Victorians shouldn’t be paying for public servants to be part-time left-wing political activists. You can listen to the interview here: James Newbury Soundcloud

In Parliament

Thursday, 23 April 2020

Second Reading Speech - COVID-19 Appropriation Bill

‘Appropriation (Interim) Bill 2020, Appropriation (Parliament Interim) Bill 2020, and State Tax (Interim) Bill 2020 Package’ Thursday, 23 April 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Borrowing money is not an economic plan. History shows that aimless borrowing always leads to aimless spending. The State deserves more than a clumsy Treasurer asking for a big blank cheque. This […]

In Parliament

Second Reading Speech - COVID-19 Omnibus Bill

‘COVID-19 OMNIBUS (EMERGENCY MEASURES) BILL 2020’ Thursday, 23 April 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): The effect of the coronavirus health pandemic hit our local communities and suburbs dramatically. By the third week of March people were unable to buy essentials. Shop shelves were empty, and the elderly were forced to wait in queues before dawn in […]

In Parliament

Adjournment - Port Phillip City Council

PORT PHILLIP CITY COUNCIL Thursday, 23 April 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): My adjournment is for the Minister for Local Government, and the action I seek is for the minister to investigate whether there are systemic issues of entitlement misuse by Greens councillors at the City of Port Phillip. Almost 50 days ago I raised with […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Home Schooling

HOME SCHOOLING Thursday, 23 April 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): With other major States developing plans to encourage young students back to school parents have begun to ask whether the Victorian Term 2 home schooling policy is practical. Parents find juggling home, work and their children a full-time job at the best of times, let alone […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - COVID-19

COVID-19 Thursday, 23 April 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Many businesses impacted by the coronavirus health pandemic have raised their concerns about the Victorian government’s business support measures. I have already raised concerns with the Premier about the Business Support Fund’s criteria, and notably he has expanded the eligibility. But there is more to be done. […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Social Distancing

SOCIAL DISTANCING Thursday, 23 April 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): Our community supports current preventative health measures. We care about our neighbours and their health. But our community has begun to question inconsistent social distancing restrictions where they lack common sense, especially when the rules restrict freedoms more so here than in neighbouring states. Restrictions should […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Economy

ECONOMY Thursday, 23 April 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): With a 14 per cent collapse in gross state product in the first six months of the year, hundreds of thousands in our community will be left without jobs, and projections of tougher economic conditions in the second half of the year mean our state may face […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 19 March 2020

Adjournment - Coronavirus and Economic Stimulus

CORONAVIRUS AND ECONOMIC STIMULUS Thursday, 19 March 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton): My Adjournment is to the Premier and the action I seek is for the Victorian Government to urgently announce a stimulus package that supports business and protects jobs. We represent Victoria. We are their voices. Over recent days, Members from all sides of the […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 18 March 2020

Members Statement - Somerside

SOMERSIDE Wednesday, 18 March 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (9:49): SomerSide produces lifestyle towels which are made from 85 per cent recycled plastic bottles. Each towel contains up to 14 bottles. After taking up surfing 25-year-old Gabby Samkova from Brighton East noticed how polluted the water was with plastic. She created the company SomerSide as a […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Stimulus Package

STIMULUS PACKAGE Wednesday, 18 March 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (9:48): Victoria’s almost one million businesses that employ millions of workers are reporting a freefall in earnings. The government must announce a stimulus package to support business and protect jobs. The New South Wales government has announced a $2.3 billion package that waives payroll tax, Queensland […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - St Leonard's Uniting Church, Brighton

ST LEONARD’S UNITING CHURCH, BRIGHTON Wednesday, 18 March 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (9:48): The Federal Assistant Minister for Homelessness, Luke Howarth, recently visited Brighton to hear from St Leonard’s Uniting Church about the coffee cup challenge. The challenge encourages people to put aside $4 each week in aid of homelessness. The Uniting Church is looking […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Learners Permit Test Delays

LEARNERS PERMIT TEST DELAYS Wednesday, 18 March 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (9:48): Young people in my community are waiting for at least 12 weeks to schedule a learners permit test appointment at VicRoads. Young Elena contacted me worried about the delays, and Brighton East mother Maxine said it is impossible to get her son an […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 5 March 2020

Adjournment - Port Phillip Council

PORT PHILLIP COUNCIL Wednesday, 5 March 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (17:32): My adjournment this evening is for the Minister for Local Government, and the action I seek is for the Minister to ensure the investigation of alleged entitlement misuse at the City of Port Phillip council. The council’s 2018–19 annual report shows that sitting Greens […]

In Parliament

Tuesday, 3 March 2020

Members Statement - Melbourne Montessori School

MELBOURNE MONTESSORI SCHOOL Tuesday, 3 March 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:41): There has been action aplenty at the Brighton campus of the Melbourne Montessori School. Last year, the school was named an Innovative Schools 2019 Award winner. Last week, I visited the school to lay a brick in the new school fence. You might be […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Gardenvale Primary School

GARDENVALE PRIMARY SCHOOL Tuesday, 3 March 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:40): You do not have to wear a badge to be a leader. That is what the students of Gardenvale Primary School reminded me on leadership day. Instead, the students spoke about learning first aid to help friends, emu-bobbing yard rubbish or helping students that […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - St Leonard's Uniting Church

ST LEONARD’S UNITING CHURCH Tuesday, 3 March 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:40): Last year St Leonard’s Uniting Church in Brighton launched a coffee cup challenge that encouraged putting aside $4 each week to raise funds for those suffering homelessness. On Sunday the community collected donations and celebrated the last day before Lent. Over $10 000 […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Lions Youth of the Year

LIONS YOUTH OF THE YEAR Tuesday, 3 March 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:40): The Lions Youth of the Year Award is aimed at helping young people. I recently sat on the judging panel for the Brighton Lions Award. Congratulations to Olivia McGarry from Star of the Sea College who was awarded Youth of the Year […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 20 February 2020

Constituency Question - Beach Rd and Orlando St, Hampton

BEACH ROAD AND ORLANDO STREET, HAMPTON Thursday, 20 February 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (11:49): Speaker, my constituency question is to the Minister for Roads, and I ask: can the minister inform me as to when government intends to fix the Beach Road bottleneck near Small Street in Hampton, which is causing unnecessary delays and havoc […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 19 February 2020

Members Statement - Elwood College

ELWOOD COLLEGE Wednesday, 19 February 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:59): Congratulations to Elwood College, who will take part in a pilot Stephanie Alexander kitchen garden program. The program will allow students to grow produce and make meals. I recently visited the school to encourage students to have a voice and to congratulate this year’s school […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Bathing Box Classic

BATHING BOX CLASSIC Wednesday, 19 February 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:58): Five hundred swimmers hit Brighton Beach recently for the Brighton Life Saving Club’s third Bathing Box Classic. The classic is an ocean swim, with races of 1.2 and 2.5 kilometres. There was a lot of excitement as the 2.5-kilometre men’s race came down to […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Brighton Cricket Club

BRIGHTON CRICKET CLUB Wednesday, 19 February 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:58): Brighton Cricket Club recently held their fifth annual Pink Lunch in aid of the National Breast Cancer Foundation. The club raised over $5500. Club President Bernie Mutimer and his family did an incredible job organising the event. And good luck to club captain, Ricky […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Give A Care Foundation

GIVE A CARE FOUNDATION Wednesday, 19 February 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:58): In 2019 Jeff Shaw launched Bayside-based Give a Care Foundation. The organisation is designed to combat the social isolation of disabled people by offering a range of free social and recreational activities. The foundation now assists 550 people. Jeff has an incredible story. […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 6 February 2020

Members Statement - Brighton Sea Scouts

1ST/14TH BRIGHTON SEA SCOUTS Thursday, 6 February 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:50): The 1st/14th Brighton Sea Scouts recently hosted internationally visiting scouts who had been forced to evacuate Canberra during the summer bushfires. Despite the travel changes, scouts from Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Scotland— who were desperate for me to try on a kilt—and the […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Brighton Little Athletics Club

BRIGHTON LITTLE ATHLETICS CLUB Thursday, 6 February 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:50): Brighton Little Athletics Club—or BLAC, as they are known in my community— recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. The club is a powerhouse in Brighton, and over 300 members and 500 parents are actively involved. Led by President Mark Barling, the club has gone […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Brighton Baptist Church

BRIGHTON BAPTIST CHURCH Thursday, 6 February 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:49): The Baptist church in Brighton showed immediate leadership in Bayside during the summer fires, becoming a hub for the collection of donated items for fireaffected communities. Led by Pastor Sean, many community groups, like Brighton Primary footy dads and Cluden Cricket Club, worked tirelessly. […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Operation Angel

OPERATION ANGEL Thursday, 6 February 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:49): Operation Angel is a niche humanitarian relief and disaster assistance organisation that was set up over summer in Brighton to prepare humanitarian packs for firefighters and evacuees. Over 15 000 packs were prepared. Thank you to the organisation’s chief executive officer, Jacqueline Pascarl, and the […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 5 February 2020

Adjournment - Duck Hunting Season

DUCK HUNTING SEASON Wednesday, 5 February 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (19:12): My adjournment matter this evening is to the Minister for Agriculture, and the action I seek is for the Minister to confirm the arrangements for this year’s duck hunting season. Many in my community mark January in their diaries as it is the month […]

In Parliament

Constituency Question - Dendy Village Crossing

DENDY VILLAGE PEDESTRIAN CROSSING Wednesday, 5 February 2020 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (16:39): My constituency question is to the Minister for Roads, and I ask: can the minister inform me when the government intends to install a pedestrian crossing at the Dendy shopping village? Dendy village is a hub of activity. It is a bustling local […]

In the Media

Sunday, 2 February 2020

Opinion Piece - Anti-Vilification Law

ANTI-VILIFICATION LAWS. Sunday 2 February, 2020. THE AGE High time Victoria stepped up against hate. The state’s 20-year-old anti-vilification laws must be revamped, write James Newbury and David Southwick. Like many places around the world, Victoria has laws designed to stop the provocation of racial or religious based hatred or violence. Our community is proudly […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 28 November 2019

Adjournment - Grenville Crossing

GRENVILLE STREET CROSSING, HAMPTON Thursday, 28 November 2019 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (17:44): My adjournment this evening is to the Minister for Public Transport, and the action I seek is for the minister to immediately reopen the Grenville Street pedestrian rail crossing in Hampton and enhance safety at the site. Earlier this week almost 200 people […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 27 November 2019

Matter of Public Importance - Energy Security

ENERGY SECURITY Wednesday, 27 November 2019 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (15:32): Under Labor, Victoria’s energy system is on life support. And this summer the danger is that our lack of preparedness will see systemic collapse. One point three million homes—3 million Victorians—are at risk of blackout. The way we produce energy is changing, which requires infrastructure […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Christmas

CHRISTMAS Wednesday, 27 November 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:57): With the House rising for the year, I wish my community of Brighton, Brighton East, Elwood and Hampton a happy festive season and a safe and prosperous new year. I also want to take the opportunity to thank my staff, Jade Smith-Love, Grace Sutcliffe, Angie Gledhill […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Rhonda Holt

RHONDA HOLT Wednesday, 27 November 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:57): After 10 years as Principal of Elwood College and seven years as Principal of Elwood Primary School, Rhonda Holt is moving into the Department. Rhonda is the backbone of education in Elwood and will be sorely missed. We wish Rhonda well.

In Parliament

Members Statement - Sue Knight

SUE KNIGHT Wednesday, 27 November 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:56): Sue Knight has led Hampton Primary School as Principal for 10 years. Sue is a wonderful community leader who encourages children to be enthusiastic, curious learners. Thank you for your leadership, Sue.

In Parliament

Members Statement - Bayley House

BAYLEY HOUSE Wednesday, 27 November 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:56): Bayley House is a special organisation that offers support to the intellectually disabled. The organisation has operated for seven decades, and their Christmas concert is a much-loved calendar feature. I want to acknowledge the leadership of Board Chair Rhonda Whitfield and Chief Executive Officer Warwick […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Bayside Upstanders Project

BAYSIDE UPSTANDERS PROJECT. Wednesday, 27 November 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:55): Each year 100 children from five Bayside primary schools, including Brighton Beach Primary School and Hampton Primary School, work together on the Upstanders project. The project teaches children not to be bystanders to bullying. The project began under the leadership of Brighton Beach Principal […]

In Parliament

Tuesday, 26 November 2019

Constituency Question - Elsternwick Park Nature Reserve

ELSTERNWICK PARK NATURE RESERVE Tuesday, 26 November 2019 Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (12:49): My constituency question is to the Minister for Water, and I ask: can the minister advise me as to what investment the state government has made towards the redevelopment of the Elsternwick Park Nature Reserve? After the 12-hectare golf course at Elsternwick Park […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 14 November 2019

Adjournment - VISY

VISY PAPER RECYCLING. Thursday, 14 November 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (17:25): My adjournment matter this evening is to the Premier, and the action I seek is an update on whether the government intends to support Visy’s proposal to expand their capacity to enable them to manage all of Victoria’s mixed paper recyclables. Victorians are sustainably […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 30 October 2019

Matter of Public Importance - Mental Health

MENTAL HEALTH. Wednesday 30 October, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (15:42): Our mental health is as important as our physical health, yet our focus is often on our physical health. So too has been the historic focus of government, the development of policy and the investment of public funding. This may be partly because, as the […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 17 October 2019

Constituency Question - Elwood College Hockey

ELWOOD COLLEGE HOCKEY. Thursday 17 October, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (11:40): My constituency question is to the Minister for Education and I ask: what date this year did the government first inform my community that it entered into a joint-use agreement last year to allow the construction of a new floodlit hockey pitch on the […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - St Leonard's College

ST LEONARD’S COLLEGE. Thursday 17 October, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:59): I recently took part in a panel discussion hosted by the student-led sustainability council and youth action groups from St Leonard’s College in Brighton. The panel focused on student-raised environmental issues. Students from across all year levels took part and asked questions which proved […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Victorian Amateur Football Association (VAFA)

VICTORIAN AMATEUR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION. Thursday 17 October, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (10:00): The Victorian Amateur Football Association, which is based in my electorate, is the largest community amateur sporting organisation. Though certain core facilities at Elsternwick Park have been updated, other associated infrastructure critically requires improvement. For example, there is currently no spectator seating, there […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Cabrini Brighton

CABRINI, BRIGHTON. Thursday 17 October, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:59): We have all been touched by a friend, relative or love one who has had dementia. Cabrini Brighton recently launched a joint partnership project with Dementia Australia aimed at creating a purpose-designed dementia-friendly rehabilitation environment in a hospital setting. The initiative is an Australian first […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - St Leonard's Uniting Church

ST LEONARD’S UNITING CHURCH, BRIGHTON. Thursday 17 October, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:59): St Leonard’s Uniting Church in Brighton has launched a special coffee mug challenge that encourages each of us to put aside $4 each week. The funds raised will be directed entirely towards those suffering homelessness. Congratulations to Minister Kim Cain and Barry […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 11 September 2019

Grievance Debate - Member Conduct

MEMBER CONDUCT. Wednesday 11 September, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (14:32): I rise today on the grievance debate to grieve for the Labor Party and the government. I intend to set out a number of ways that the Labor Party has condoned unacceptable behaviour and failed to show adequate leadership, and I will start with reference […]

In Parliament

Tuesday, 10 September 2019

Constituency Question - Honk & Go Policy

HONK AND GO POLICY. Tuesday 10 September, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (11:51): My constituency question is to the Minister for Roads and Minister for Road Safety and the TAC. My constituents have asked me to raise the issue that the Minister consider a honk-and-go policy that encourages drivers to honk their horn before leaving their […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Brighton Men's Shed

BRIGHTON MEN’S SHED. Tuesday 10 September, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:39): Men’s Shed has opened a new site in Dendy Street, Brighton. The shed is an updated version of the backyard shed, an iconic part of our culture. The community-based organisation provides men with the opportunity to come together to exchange ideas, learn new skills, […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Elwood Scout Group

ELWOOD SCOUT GROUP. Tuesday 10 September, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:38): The 1st Elwood Scouts Group is an institution in my community. I recently celebrated the year with the group and congratulated three Scouts who were awarded the Australian Scout Medallion. I also recognised Group President Mark Richardson for 10 years of volunteerism. I congratulate […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - BayCISS

BAYCISS. Tuesday 10 September, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:38): The Bayside Community Information & Support Services is a not-for-profit charity that provides a range of much-needed services to my community. I recently met with Manager Karyn Doyle and the team to talk about the incredible work they provide, including up to a dozen food and […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Elwood Bowls Club

ELWOOD BOWLS CLUB. Tuesday 10 September, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:38): Elwood Bowls Club is a community hub with a terrific age mix of members. Part of that success is the club’s close relationship with Elwood College. Another reason is that the club provides a great opportunity for locals to get together, meet new people […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 28 August 2019

Matter of Public Importance - Government Agenda

GOVERNMENT AGENDA. Wednesday 28 August, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (15:22): It would be remiss of me not to start by remarking on the quality, or lack thereof, of this matter of public importance. I heard the member for Essendon waste parliamentary time earlier today droning on about being an avid fan of the Comic Sans […]

In Parliament

Constituency Question - Brighton Bathing Boxes

BRIGHTON BATHING BOXES. Wednesday 28 August. 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (11:50): My question is to the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change. With the public consultation process for the Draft Marine and Coastal Policy recently closing, I ask the Minister whether the government will immediately confirm that it has amended its policy, which called […]

In Parliament

Tuesday, 27 August 2019

Members Statement - Brighton Croquet Club

BRIGHTON CROQUET CLUB. Tuesday 27 August, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:41): Brighton Croquet Club will soon celebrate its 110th birthday. The club is an institution, as too is its hearty mushroom soup. The club is concerned about over-development in every one of its neighbouring streets. I recently hit the first hoop of the season. I […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Hampton Bowls Club

HAMPTON BOWLS CLUB. Tuesday 27 August, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:40):Tuesday 27 August, 2019. The Hampton Bowls Club will soon celebrate its 70th birthday. Hampton Bowls is a hub for my local community. In the last year alone social activity has doubled and many community groups call the club’s facilities home. I recently bowled the […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Sandringham Athletics Club

SANDRINGHAM ATHLETICS CLUB. Tuesday 27 August, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:40): Sandringham Athletic Club, which is based in my electorate, is almost 90 years old. The membership is strong. The Stawell Gift winner and Tamsin Lewis are members, and Cathy Freeman is a club mentor. The club’s track in Hampton was last upgraded in 1999. […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Grosvenor Street, Brighton

GROSVENOR STREET BRIGHTON. Tuesday 27 August, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:40): Faced with the wrecking ball, this government has failed to protect the historic Tudor-style home at 38 Grosvenor Street, Brighton. The house was designed by Home Beautiful journalist Esmé Johnston in 1930. Almost 1000 people called for action but their calls have fallen on […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 15 August 2019

Constituency Question - Church Street Traders

CHURCH STREET TRADERS. Thursday 15 August, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (11:51): My constituency question is to the Minister for Police, and I ask the Minister: what law enforcement measures are in place to protect Church Street Traders in Brighton from swarming? The Church Street Traders, ably led by President Keiran Cromie, have raised with me […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 14 August 2019

Matter of Public Importance - Homelessness

HOMELESSNESS. Wednesday 14 August, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (15:13): This is a difficult issue, because in our hearts we want all Victorians to have a roof over their heads, and yet too many do not. We know that over 24,000 of our fellow Victorians will be homeless tonight, and almost 40 per cent of those […]

In Parliament

Tuesday, 13 August 2019

Members Statement - Brighton Golf Club

BRIGHTON GOLF CLUB. Tuesday 13 August, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:25): Each year the Brighton Golf Club ladies hold a charity day. This year the ladies raised almost $7500 for Sacred Heart Mission. I recently volunteered for lunch service at the mission. They serve lunch for up to 400 people each day. The Brighton Golf […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Wilson Street Kindergarten

WILSON STREET KINDERGARTEN. Tuesday 13 August, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:25): One day each week Wilson Street Kindergarten runs Bush Kindergarten. Bush kinder is preschool education for children held exclusively outdoors and encourages children to play, explore and learn in the natural environment. I recently joined the group as they built, climbed, and had a […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Solar Homes Package

SOLAR HOMES PACKAGE. Tuesday 14 August, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:25): The solar industry small businesses in my community are hurting. Elwood resident David Tolliday, a senior solar TAFE instructor and small businessman, told me: “The Solar Victoria program is a disaster and causing untold damage in solar businesses in Victoria. People are losing their […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Royal Brighton Yacht Club

ROYAL BRIGHTON YACHT CLUB. Tuesday 13 August, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:26): Congratulations to Royal Brighton Yacht Club, which has been awarded the title of Victorian Yacht Club of the Year. In other terrific news, the club will be hosting the 2023 Etchells World Yachting Championships. The Championship is one of the yachting world’s most […]

In the Media

Saturday, 27 July 2019

Interview - ABC Melbourne Radio (27 July 2019)

Interview – ABC Melbourne Radio (27 July 2019) James was interviewed by Jon Faine at ABC Melbourne Radio, talking about the latest events and topics occurring across Victoria. You can listen to the interview at this link: James Newbury Soundcloud

In Parliament

Thursday, 20 June 2019

Adjournment – Staff Entitlements

My adjournment this evening is to the Minister for Industrial Relations, and the action I seek is an investigation into reported underpayment of staff entitlements.

In Parliament

Wednesday, 19 June 2019

Constituency Question - Lady Forster Kindergarten

LADY FOSTER KINDERGARTEN. Wednesday 19 June, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (11:33): My constituency question is for the Minister for Education, and I ask the minister whether this government has a secret plan to close Elwood-based Lady Forster Kindergarten by not renewing its lease. Lady Forster Kindergarten is a special kindergarten located on the Elwood foreshore. […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Grenville Crossing, Hampton

GRENVILLE CROSSING, HAMPTON. Wednesday, 19 June 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (10:15): Despite Public Transport Victoria previously confirming that the Grenville Street railway pedestrian crossing in Hampton is one of the worst in the state, it being the site where Hampton grandmother Gloria Holmes was tragically killed soon after Public Transport Victoria cancelled safety works there, […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Brighton Hebrew Congregation

BRIGHTON HEBREW CONGREGATION. Wednesday, 19 June 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (10:14): After 30 years leading the Brighton Hebrew Congregation, Rabbi Levin retired. I recently joined the congregation as Alex Tsykin was inducted as the new Rabbi. I warmly welcome Alex, his wife, Ahuva, and their four beautiful children into the Brighton community.

In Parliament

Members Statement - 1st / 14th Brighton Sea Scouts

1st/14th BRIGHTON SEA SCOUTS. Wednesday, 19 June 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (10:14): I would like to pay special acknowledgement to the 1st/14th Brighton Sea Scouts. Two of their Venturers, Thomas Joyce and Felix Cousins, were recently presented with the Queen’s Scout Award, and group leader Janet Cardell was presented with the Wood Badge. All three […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - St Columba's Primary School

ST COLUMBA’S PRIMARY SCHOOL. Wednesday, 19 June 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (10:14): St Columba’s Catholic Primary School is a special school in my community. The school, ably led by Daniella Maddalena, was a finalist in the ResourceSmart School of the Year Awards. In 2018 the local foreshore became the classroom for students as they transformed […]

In Parliament

Tuesday, 18 June 2019

Constituency Question - Supervised Injecting Room

SUPERVISED INJECTING ROOM. Tuesday, 18 June 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (12:53): My constituency question is to the Premier. I ask the Premier whether it is government policy to block Members of Parliament from joining public tours of the medically supervised injecting room at the North Richmond Community Health Centre. For some time I have suspected […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 6 June 2019

Constituency Question - School Zone Changes

SCHOOL ZONE CHANGES. Thursday, 6 June 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (11:39): My constituency question is to the Minister for Education, and I reference my letter to him dated 15 May 2019. I ask the minister: should the government have consulted the community about changes to Victoria’s neighbourhood school zones before they were forced upon Victorian […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 5 June 2019

Members Statement - Brighton Secondary College

BRIGHTON SECONDARY COLLEGE. Wednesday, 5 June 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:55): Brighton Secondary College is an impressive school led by Richard Minack that prides itself on providing inclusive, comprehensive and wide-ranging educational opportunities. It is also a large school that serves 1200 students. I recently visited the school for arts and international week. For the […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - KIDS Foundation

KIDS FOUNDATION. Wednesday, 5 June 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:56): Childhood injuries are reportedly the leading cause of death and hospitalisation in Australian children aged between one and 14 years. After encountering a young girl with cigarette bums on her hands some 40 years ago, Dr Susie O’Neill has dedicated her life to children at […]

In Parliament

Tuesday, 28 May 2019

Bill Debate - Appropriation (2019-2020) BILL 2019

APPROPRIATION (2019-2020) BILL 2019. Tuesday, 28 May 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (14:43): The Premier claims this budget ‘strikes the right balance’, and the Treasurer claims his budget is ‘fair’. Laughably, the budget has been slapped with cheap slogan wrap claiming it delivers for all Victorians. Well, Victorians will work out the truth; they will not […]

In Parliament

Adjournment - Gardenvale Primary School

GARDENVALE PRIMARY SCHOOL. Tuesday, 28 May 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (19:06): My adjournment matter is to the Minister for Education, and the action I seek is for the minister to commit funding to Gardenvale Primary School. Gardenvale Primary School is a special school that is uniquely set across two campuses in the same Brighton East […]

In Parliament

Monday, 27 May 2019

Members Statement - Prader-Willi Syndrome

PRADER-WILLI SYNDROME. Monday, 27 May 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (14:43): I recently met a beautiful young girl called Chloe. Chloe has a rare genetic disorder called Prader-Willi syndrome. It is a randomly occurring disorder where some of the genes in chromosome 15 are inactive or missing. The syndrome affects development and growth. I recently joined […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Brighton Beach Primary School

Brighton Beach Primary School is a historic school in my community. It was opened in April 1878 as an orphanage.

In Parliament

Thursday, 2 May 2019

Adjournment - Bullying

BULLYING. Thursday, 2 May 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (17:32): My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Education, and the action I seek is for the minister to update me on what policies and programs the government has in place to assist with the complex issue of ameliorating the bullying of young people. One of […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 1 May 2019

Grievance Debate - Economic Management

ECONOMIC MANAGEMENT. Wednesday, 1 May 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (14:02): A strong Australian economy ensures prosperity—prosperity for our state and for our community to reach their full potential. As a nation we have had almost 30 years of consecutive economic growth. But a strong economy should never be taken for granted. Many in our community […]

In Parliament

Tuesday, 30 April 2019

Members Statement - Elwood Sailing Club

ELWOOD SAILING CLUB. Tuesday, 30 April 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (17:18): Situated on the beautiful foreshore, Elwood Sailing Club is an active part of Elwood and a hub for the local community. The club membership remains strong. Amongst many events, the community joins together outside the Elwood Club each year for Anzac Day. Up to […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Gardenvale Primary School

GARDENVALE PRIMARY SCHOOL. Tuesday, 30 April 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (17:17): Gardenvale Primary School is a special school that is uniquely set across two campuses in the same Brighton East Street. Led by Principal Janine Hall and Assistant Principal Julie Pitts, the school represents what is best about our education system and what can be […]

In Parliament

Thursday, 21 March 2019

Adjournment - Waste and Recycling Management

WASTE AND RECYCLING MANAGEMENT. Thursday, 21 March 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (17:11): My adjournment matter this afternoon is for the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, and the action I seek is for the Minister to provide a written update to me on what concrete plans the state government has to deal with Victoria’s […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 20 March 2019

Matter of Public Importance - Renewable Energy

RENEWABLE ENERGY. Wednesday, 20 March 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (15:43): I am particularly pleased to rise on this issue. At the outset I want to put my view on record. Traditional energy resources are limited. Our climate is changing. Renewable resources on the other hand are sustainable, support a balanced environment and can be naturally […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Brighton Electorate Pedestrian Crossings

BRIGHTON ELECTORATE PEDESTRIAN CROSSING. Wednesday, 20 March 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (10:02): My community is also in desperate need of two pedestrian-operated crossings. The first is on Glen Huntly Road in Elwood, outside Elwood Primary School. VicRoads crash data reportedly shows that in the last five years there have been 17 incidents along the strip. […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Street2Bay Project

Some estimate that 80 per cent of the plastics in our marine environment come from our streets. It is a confronting statistic.

In Parliament

Thursday, 7 March 2019

Members Statement - Bayside Dog Alliance

BAYSIDE DOG ALLIANCE. Thursday 7 March, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:51): I also recently met with Amanda Levi of the Bayside Dog Alliance. The Alliance recently celebrated its second anniversary, having been set up as a voice for dog owners and carers in the Bayside region. The Alliance estimates that there are between 18 000 […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Lady Forster Kindergarten

LADY FORSTER KINDERGARTEN. Thursday 7 March, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (09:50): Lady Forster Kindergarten is a special kindergarten located on the Elwood foreshore that celebrates its 95th anniversary this year. Lady Forster is also unique in that it is located right on the beach. Lady Forster is an integrated part of the Elwood community and […]

In Parliament

Wednesday, 6 March 2019

Adjournment - Elsternwick Primary School

ELSTERNWICK PRIMARY SCHOOL. Wednesday 6 March, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (19:09): My adjournment matter this evening is for the Minister for Education, and the action I seek is for the minister to commit funding to Elsternwick Primary School. Elsternwick Primary is located in a part of my electorate that will see significant change over coming […]

In Parliament

Tuesday, 19 February 2019

Adjournment - Elwood College

ELWOOD COLLEGE. Tuesday 19 February, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (19:15): My adjournment matter this evening is to the Minister for Education, and the action I seek is for the minister to commit to funding the proposed Phoenix Centre at Elwood College in Elwood. Elwood College has a vision to rebuild their existing theatre and gymnasium […]

In Parliament

Members Statement - Hampton Primary School

HAMPTON PRIMARY SCHOOL. Tuesday 19 February, 2019. Mr NEWBURY (Brighton) (13:48): I rise to congratulate this year’s school leaders at Hampton Primary School. As a new Member of Parliament one of the greatest joys I have had was to meet the 30 new student leaders at Hampton Primary School as they were presented with their leadership […]

Media Statements

Wednesday, 5 December 2018

Statement - Brighton Declaration

Statement – Brighton Declaration. 5 December 2018. Thank you to Brighton, Brighton East, Elwood, and Hampton for electing me to be your voice in the Victorian Parliament. Brighton is the only 1856 electorate that has not been held by the Australian Labor Party. On Election Day, you delivered the strongest possible message. You will not […]

Media Statements

Monday, 26 November 2018

Statement - Post Election

Statement – Post Election. 26 November 2018. The Liberal Party is currently 1582 votes ahead in the Brighton electorate. One third of the votes cast in Brighton are yet to be counted. My community has never sent a stronger message. They want my Party to reset and rebuild. They want a modern Liberal Party. It […]

In the Media

Friday, 2 June 2017

Opinion Piece - Planning

PLANNING. Sunday 2 June, 2019. THE AGE It takes a village to raise a planning fuss. Your home, as they say, is your castle. That’s why for most of us, our suburb is a bit like our local village – it’s where we shop, bank, and catch up with friends for a quick coffee. Although […]

In the Media

Thursday, 12 January 2017

Opinion Piece — Crime

Late last year, a man held scissors to the throat of a woman as she sat in my local park eating lunch. In broad daylight, the man assaulted her, and then drove off with her car. Vicious crimes are now happening in the places where we once felt safe. Is there any wonder why Victorians are living in fear?

Media Statements

Thursday, 11 August 2016

Statement - Louise Asher's Intention To Retire

Statement – Louise Asher’s Intention To Retire. 11 August 2016. Our local Member of Parliament and friend, Louise Asher, has announced that she intends to retire from Parliament at the 2018 State Election, having then served for twenty six years. On announcing her intention, Louise said that it is time for generational change and to […]