Availability of water, and increased funding of education and training of young Australians are issues that Beechworth scientist and Australian Democrats candidate for Indi, Mark Carey, wants on the political agenda.

“Water availability remains a fundamental issue for the electorate of Indi. During the past decade, we have experienced shortages and have seen the negative impact it has had on our communities.

“It is vital that farmers, rural communities and environmental assets receive their fair share of water so we can all enjoy the prosperity it can deliver.”

Mark is particularly passionate about the need for policies to ensure sustainable rural communities, adequately funded schools and universities, and access to health care services.

Education and training of young Australians is another area which he strongly believes needs improvement and wants to put high on the national agenda. “For too long, our teachers have been undervalued and our schools and universities underfunded. Adequate resources are long overdue and require attention.

“There also needs to be a re-evaluation of financial support given to our university students. It is really difficult to make ends meet while studying full-time.

“If elected I will represent all citizens with a personal philosophy that is consistent with the Australian Democrats’ objectives of social justice, economic and environmental sustainability and compassion and equality for all Australians.”

Mark, who is twenty seven, lives in Beechworth where he received his early education before obtaining a BSc(Hons) at La Trobe University’s Albury-Wodonga campus. He is currently completing his PhD in ornithology. Visit Mark Carey’s website.