Article
Braddon Candidate Profiles – Independents & Minor Parties
We focused on the independent and minor party candidates for the upcoming House of Assembly elections and asked them to complete a short survey for us. The order on this page – below the electorate subheading – is random. We have not received responses from all candidates despite contacting them several times.
We encourage voters to read all profiles.
Candidates were invited to tell us about their:
- political background, principles, what shapes their views, key beliefs and what kind of politician will they be
- education, job, family and community work
- main issues in their electorate and their proposed solutions
- key upcoming issues such as the stadium, DAP’s and justice related legislation
- whether they will provide confidence and supply to a party that is proceeding with the stadium as its policy position
- reasons why you should vote for them, will they make a good MHA and what skills will they bring to parliament
You can click on their photo to go to their website (if they provided a link).
The main polling day is Saturday 19 July 2025 with pre-poll centres already open at various locations around Tasmania. Please see the TEC website for more information on how to vote.
For major parties (5 MHAs or more), their candidates can be found here: Greens, Liberal, Labor.
Malcolm Ryan – independent
Political background:
I am a true Independent. I was an Independent Burnie Council Alderman from 2004 to 2012. I began my political journey campaigning against the MIS Plantation developments in the late nineties.
About you, personally:
I am a six generation Braddon resident with my great great grandmother being the first white woman born in the Hampshire settlement. I grew up on a farm with a Jersey stud, 130 acres of bush and a sawmill with my mother president of the North West Organic Society. I have worked in mining, agriculture, plumbing, small business and contracting.
I have been a Burnie Council Alderman, President of the Burnie Tourism Association, Board member of Creative Paper, Executive member of the Burnie Historical Society and was instrumental in starting the Burnie Farmers Market.
I have 3 adult sons, all tradesman and a 9 month old granddaughter.
Your electorate and its key issues?
Housing, cost of living, health and education along with environmental issues are of a big concern for Braddon and more so that other parts of Tasmania. Burnie is in desperate need of renewal. The Burnie Port is significant infrastructure not only for Burnie but the whole of Tasmanian and needs significant upgrades. Marinus Link is also a costly white elephant for businesses and families and must be scrapped.
A circular economy driving business and manufacturing and waste management is a massive opportunity for Braddon that I will push hard for along with a $50 million food hub.
In the House:
I am 100% against the new Stadium. We have 2 AFL approved facilities and the UTAS Stadium has one of the best grounds in the country and has 130m being spent on it as we speak. We will be $13 billion in debt by 2028 and that is unacceptable. The Government can’t educate our kids, heal our sick or house our homeless.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
I believe that the Liberals will get smashed and their lost seats will go to Independents and then it will be the Independents and cross bench that will have the power to form government. In other words the parties will have to provide confidence to us.
Why you, why now?
By 2028 Tasmanian will be $13 Billion in debt. I have practical and educated knowledge as well as very clever networks that will assist myself and the other Independents to turn the ship around. Where there is a will there is a way. We did not create the mess Tasmania is in, at the very least we should be given a chance to fix it.
You can keep doing the same thing over and over and expect a different result.
Andrea Courtney – independent
Political background:
I am fiercely Independent Candidate who has served 2 terms as a Local Councillor. I have been a Union delegate and a Whistleblower in Tasmania, seeking greater transparency and accountability when it comes to the use of public funds.
About you, personally:
A grand daughter of Yolla farmers, and a truck driver for Mayne Nickless. I am a mother of two and I came home to Tasmania to become a mother, after working in the IT Industry in QLD.
After working in Local Government for nearly a decade, followed by a decade, in the state health service, I decided to run for State in order to ensure more transparent governance.
Your electorate and its key issues?
I believe the Braddon electorate has been promised a great deal each election, but are being failed on where it matters. We’re grossly underfunded in education, and for the money we spend in health per head, we are not getting value for money.
Preventative health and transparent accountable governance is the way to bring the budget deficit down. Our state is being distracted and divided by the dud AFL deal.
Meanwhile people are struggling to keep a roof over their head, or to afford fresh food. The current priorities are not the right priorities. We need to focus on the basics first, get them right, then we can look at building bigger assets.
It’s easy to build things to boost the job numbers. It’s harder to be strategic, fair, and fiscally responsible while doing it. But that’s what’s needed. Because long term sustainability is more important than short term job numbers.
In the House:
We need to go back to the financial disclosure legislation, in order to get big money out of our politics. We need greater transparency, and real accountability from our elected members at all levels.
I will be seeking a review of the state’s Whistleblower Legislation.
In my personal experience, the current legislation has no mechanism to ensure Public Interest Disclosure (PID) assessments are done, leaving the whistleblower without protection. While the “public interest” threshold also fails to protect genuine whistleblowers. The legislation is two decades old.
If we want to address corruption in our governance. We need to protect our whistleblowers.
In relation to the proposed planning changes for “major projects”. It’s a No. If these projects are in our communities, it is un-democratic to strip the public of their right to appeal.
Tasmanians are sick of money being promised each election, when what they need is targeted relief from social harm/issues.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
I will not.
The current proposal is a dud deal for Tasmania. But especially so, for the people of Braddon. The current agreement is far too flawed.
Tasmania deserves a team, however, a project of this size, with this financial impact, should have gone through public consultation and have been approved by parliament, as we are still a democracy in Tasmania.
The way this deal has been done, has undermined public trust in this government. Sure, it will boost a few job numbers in the short term. What then ? What’s the plan for jobs then?
There is very little long term planning when the party only focuses on what they can promise/spend in order to get elected again. It’s that kind of governance that got us into the state we’re in.
It’s time for transparent, honest governance, with long term strategic planning. Not just political term governance.
Why you, why now?
Because the Liberals have had long enough and Labor offer no genuine alternative in Tasmania.
I am anti corruption. So I will fearlessly pursue transparency and accountability, and have a proven track record as a Councillor for delivering what I promise.
A vote for me, is a vote against corruption. It’s a vote to protect our whistleblowers.
Voting for me, is voting for a local representative who will focus on the right priorities, such as housing, preventative health, affordable education and protecting our natural environment.
We need to have conversations about the amount of public money going to industries that are harmful. We need to starting talking about transition to long term sustainable industries.
We need candidates that will advocate for living incomes in the age of AI. Traditional jobs will become redundant as AI automation changes the way we live in the future.
We need leaders right now, not empire builders.
Cristale Mccormick – independent
Political background:
I’m running as an independent because I believe people deserve a representative who listens, leads with integrity, and answers to the community not a party room. I’m not here to play politics. I’m here because I know what it’s like to feel shut out of the decisions that affect your life. My independence means I can stand with my community, not behind party lines. It means I can call for conversations that are honest, respectful, and focused on what really matters not what’s politically convenient.
I believe that’s how we rebuild trust and make government work for everyday people again.
About you, personally:
I wasn’t born in Tasmania, but this is the place I’ve chosen to raise my family and call home. I’m a mum of three boys, a carer, and someone who has spent her life fighting for those she loves. I cared for my mum through cancer and my Nan through dementia as a teenager. Today, I support my son who is autistic and my husband who is living with an irreversible lung disease from unsafe work conditions. I’ve lived through the cracks in our health, disability, and housing systems and I’ve helped others through them too. I’m not here for power or titles. I’m here to be a voice for those who are tired of being ignored.
Your electorate and its key issues?
Braddon is full of proud, hardworking people but right now, many are feeling stretched thin and left behind. The cost of living keeps rising, the housing crisis is hitting families hard, and access to healthcare and support services is getting worse. We’re also seeing community voices pushed aside when it comes to major developments, environmental management and fisheries. I want to change that. We need real representation someone who lives it, listens, and speaks up. Most of all, I want to bring people back into the conversation and help restore the community spirit that makes our region strong. We won’t move forward by being divided — we need unity, inclusion, and leadership with heart.
In the House:
Our first priorities must be housing, health, education, and the wellbeing of our communities. I don’t support the stadium being pushed through now — not because I don’t believe in bold ideas, but because the timing is wrong and the process has left too many people feeling shut out. We’re in a crisis, and it’s time we act like it.
I want to see proper community consultation on major decisions, transparency in planning processes, and real investment in services that make a difference. I’ll keep pushing for honesty and accountability in government because the best decisions come when people are genuinely included.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
I will not provide confidence and supply to any government that pushes ahead with the Mac Point stadium as a current policy priority. I want to be clear, I’m not against the idea of a stadium in the future. But right now, with rising debt, a housing and healthcare crisis, and families doing it tough, I believe we need to focus on the basics.
What concerns me even more is how this issue is dividing Tasmanians. I don’t want to see our communities torn apart over a project that hasn’t had proper consultation. We need to come back together, have the hard conversations, and set our priorities with the people not just for them. I’ll always support bold ideas when they’re backed by good timing, strong evidence, and true community support. Until then, we must focus on what really matters now.
Why you, why now?
I’m standing because I care deeply. I’ve seen how hard life can get when the systems meant to support you don’t show up. I’ve had to fight for my kids, my husband my community — and I know I’m not alone in that. I’ve met so many others doing it tough, and I want to carry their stories, their strength, and their hopes with me into Parliament.
I’m not here for a career in politics. I’m here to bring real-world experience, compassion, and grit to the table. I believe leadership means listening, showing up, and doing the work — especially when it’s hard. I want to help bridge the divides, restore trust, and remind people that politics can be about people again.
That’s the kind of representative I will be for Braddon.
Adam Martin – independent
Political background:
I have never been a member of a political party—and never will be. I believe if you can’t stand on your own two feet politically, you’re not fit to represent your community. Real representation means listening to people, not toeing a party line or answering to big donors and faceless backroom powerbrokers. Too often, party politics puts self-preservation and corporate interests ahead of everyday Tasmanians. That’s not democracy—it’s dysfunction.
Independents who are genuinely independent are free to make decisions based on what’s right, not what’s politically convenient. I’m standing because I believe our communities deserve a representative who’s grounded in real-world experience, not party spin. I answer only to the people who live and work here—not to a party boss in Hobart or Canberra.
That’s how we get back to government for the people, by the people—accountable, accessible and built on integrity.
About you, personally:
Adam Martin grew up on a vineyard in Coomealla, NSW, with his two younger brothers, learning the value of hard work early. He completed his carpentry apprenticeship in 2000 and later earned diplomas in building, construction, and financial management. Adam has run his own business since the early 2000s and served as Executive Officer, General Manager, and Project Manager across multiple sectors. A year in Canada with his wife Colette broadened his global perspective and deepened his commitment to community-driven change.
He’s led not-for-profit initiatives, exposed corruption in a national peak body, and fought for better representation for small-scale farmers in Tasmania. As a founder of the Tasmanian Pasture Poultry Producers, Adam champions independent voices and accountability. His life’s work reflects a deep belief that communities must stand their ground, hold power to account and build a fairer, self-reliant future for all.
Your electorate and its key issues?
Braddon is home to resilient people, rich resources and stunning natural beauty—but we’re being let down by mismanagement and self-serving party politics. Key issues include housing, health, education, environmental stewardship and the neglect of our local industries.
My approach is built on three pillars: First, addressing urgent issues like housing, health, education, and the environment; second, restoring transparency, accountability, and community power in decision-making; and third, driving an “abundance agenda” that supports existing industries and unlocks suppressed opportunities in sectors like manufacturing and agriculture.
We must build systems that serve Tasmanians first—not just feed mainland profits. I believe in real community representation, not career politics. Braddon can lead again with smart planning, local control, and a government that actually works for us.
In the House:
Tasmanians deserve better than secretive deals and political vanity projects like the Mac Point stadium. I oppose it—our priorities must be housing, health, education, environment, and infrastructure that serves people, not headlines. Planning decisions via DAPs have sidelined communities; I’ll push for reforms that return real power to locals.
Justice legislation must be transparent and balanced—laws rushed through without proper scrutiny risk long-term harm.
If elected, I’ll work relentlessly on first-order issues: fixing our broken housing system, strengthening healthcare, improving education outcomes, and protecting our environment. I’ll also pursue greater integrity, transparency, and accountability in government—too many decisions are being made behind closed doors.
Finally, I’ll champion an “abundance agenda” to expand and modernise industries like advanced manufacturing, regenerative agriculture, and ethical energy production, so Tasmanians can build prosperity from our strengths, not be held back by party politics or vested interests.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
No, I will not provide confidence and supply to any government that proceeds with the Mac Point stadium as a policy priority. With forecast state debt now expected to blow out by another $3 billion—reaching $13 billion by 2028—Tasmania cannot afford a billion-dollar stadium that ignores pressing needs.
We’re facing a housing crisis, a health system under immense pressure, struggling schools, and environmental neglect. These are the first-order issues any responsible government must tackle. The stadium is a political vanity project, not a community priority. Any government seeking my support must commit to putting people before prestige and investing in what truly matters to Tasmanians.
Why you, why now?
I’ve spent decades working across construction, farming, business, and community advocacy — not in politics. I bring real-world experience, not spin. I’ve managed teams, exposed corruption, built coalitions, and stood up to government departments on behalf of everyday Tasmanians.
I’ve never been part of a political party and never will be — I believe true representation means standing on your own two feet, free from party control and big donors. My focus is on first-order issues like housing, health, education, and the environment. I will push for transparency, integrity and an economic agenda that supports existing and new industries.
I’m not in this for a career — I’m here because our communities deserve better and I won’t stop fighting for them.
James Redgrave – independent
Political background:
I ran an independent campaign under JLN last state election in Braddon. I am now fiercely Independent for Braddon.
I was also a card carting ALP member for twenty years, now I can’t see the difference between the reds and blues.
About you, personally:
Volunteer Leader with a strong sense of community commitment to achieve better outcomes. Will speak truth to power without fear or favour.
I’m proud of my work with Tasmanian Lions clubs from the container refund scheme, the new skin cancer foundation to the need for feed drive to King Island.
I’m proud of being helpful in bring new life into Railton RSL for both the veteran and Railton communities. I’m proud to be a warrior for better local government in Tasmania.
Your electorate and its key issues?
Financially responsible governance.
Homelessness, Health and Education all need grown up conversations Roads our highways need to be concrete now.
Local Government needs reform to move the state forward creating long term.
Beneficial jobs for Braddon will be a priority.
In the House:
All deals current to be examined and forensically reviewed to get better outcomes for Tasmanians. I will examine all bills forensically to ensure better outcomes.
I will bring stable strong financial stability to this state through balanced ideas for income streams while assessing strongly the outgoings.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
Yes. Renegotiate with AFL and Federal Government for the lion share of the funding for the Stadium. Our look at a new way of public private partnership for the stadium.
Why you, why now?
I will bring financial stability and solid ideas for income streams. I am a great negotiator for better deals for Tasmanians. I will always put people above politics to ensure will lift the many not just a few.
Let build a better future for Tasmania.
Matthew Morgan – independent
Political background:
I am standing to see Tasmanians get a fair go . Honest and Transparent Representation in Parliament . I want Tas State Debt Fixed .
I want to have New Road Builds taken back to Our Old Standard ; the Victorian standard of Roadbuilding we adopted does Not suit Tasmanian Conditions.
I want the 1 in 4 Tasmanians that have the Autism disability and their Families to Receive assistance from a Government Funded Agency .
I want 4 wheel Drive Access into Locked of Foresty Tracks by Registered 4 wheel drive Clubs and Tours. I want greater Access to Leatherwood Coups by Our Beekeepers .
I want the Tasmanian Farmed Salmon Industry to pay Royalties as per Saul Eslakes recommendation .
I want to dissipate most or all of Our States Huge Debt before a Macquarie Point Stadium is considered .
About you, personally:
I am a recreational fisher. I ride a Motorcycle
I work co Skippering a Boat in Wilderness Tourism on the Pieman River for Corinna Wilderness Pty Ltd .
I like to socialise with Friends.
Fire Pots, good Music and lots of Laughs.
Your electorate and its key issues?
Braddon has Many issues . The two main problems in Braddon are The Tasmanian Liberal Party
And The Tasmanian Labor Party. Too much Spin.
Too little Honesty and No Transparency. The Cure.
Vote Independent in Braddon. Revitalise Tasmania’s Parliament.
In the House:
The DAP is a Dodgy way to Circumvent the Tasmanian Planning Commission and it cannot be supported .
No Macquarie Point Stadium until Tasmania has dissipated Debt and we can afford it.
Follow the Advice of Saul Eslake to get state Debt manageable but No Sale of GBE’s.
Overhaul Goverment Departments that are Top heavy with upper Level Administration.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
Until it’s Proven that Tasmania can handle the Huge Debt of the Stadium I will Not support Parties Pushing for it. We need sound Government with good Leadership; all of which has been absent under the Liberals.
If the Independents and Minor Parties got the Most Seats they could pick the Premier from the Upper House.
Ruth Forrest would do Tasmania proud as Our Premier.
Why you, why now?
Because I listen to People.
And I am Willing to Fight for their needs.
Claudia Baldock – independent
Political background:
The Tasmanian political landscape has changed in my view in the last 10 years. The community has lost their voice and in some cases their opinion. We are in dire need for change. So past political background does not count in this political environment. I grew up in Switzerland with direct democracy which allows the community to have a voice and I believe that works.
About you, personally:
My early education was based in Switzerland in the canton of Lucerne. My extended college education was in Zurich. I majored in international communication studies, finalising my education in America.
I have worked and lived in Tasmania with my husband for the last 20 years. Raising our three children, managing our mum and dad small business. Our family is volunteering for the local Surf Club, Online Lions Club and the RSPCA animal charity.
Your electorate and its key issues?
Transparency and reform of Local and State Government is I believe the biggest issue. To reduce the number of Councils within the state is a start to this process.
As I am based and running in Braddon and both the major parties have declared fish farming is OK in the bass straight area with minimal science research to support this, it is not a good foundation for a long term industry. The governance of salmon farming has failed the communities of this state. Profit over people – this has to stop.
It has been very successful around the world when in harmony with the environment as we can see in the Nordic areas of Europe. This has not been highlighted or considered by the major parties and this is the starting point of this industry which has been miss managed over the recent years.
In the House:
In regards to the stadium never say never. It would be great to have an AFL team based in Tasmania if we can afford it. For the major parties to negotiate such a poor deal on behalf of the community of Tasmania is a travesty that has been uncovered. Renegotiation is paramount and more support from AFL and the Federal Government is needed.
It is clear the Premier could not negotiate his way out of a wet paper bag.
A responsible and sustainable fish industry is important moving forward and needs to be backed by science.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
To answer this correctly we need more information based around the policies.
As written above in regards to the stadium never say never. It would be great to have an AFL team based in Tasmania if we can afford it. For the major parties to negotiate such a poor deal on behalf of the community of Tasmania is a travesty that has been uncovered. Renegotiation is paramount and more support from AFL and the Federal Government is needed.
Why you, why now?
With my support of the Independent movement in Tasmania we take a step forward for the local communities to bring back their voice. The state should be managed without privatising our major assets. I am committed to take steps to make sure this happens. Enough is enough!
The major parties have been patting each other on the back and telling each other they have done a great job for the people of Tasmania for too long.
Enough is enough!
A vote for Claudia Baldock is a vote for the coordinated Independents of this state.
Jennifer Hamilton – independent
Political background:
Independent, first-time candidate committed to people-first leadership. I don’t tow party lines – I follow the needs of our community. Education, skills training and local solutions are my foundation for lasting change.
About you, personally:
Curious, practical and future-focused. I’ve worked across business, training, farming and community leadership with a Bachelor of Business Administration, a Certificate IV in Teaching and Assessment and currently in a Graduate Diploma of Psychology. I listen well, ask better questions and act on what matters. I have a young family and currently serve as the President of The Coast Voice hyperlocal newspaper. I believe change starts by building people up.
Your electorate and its key issues?
Braddon is full of talent, care and potential. We need better classroom support, earlier and more skills training and direct job pathways. We need more options for reskilling and upskilling for career changers. We must improve literacy and numeracy. People want real opportunity and a representative who actually listens and takes action for them. There is a way forward that works for the people, the businesses and the environment – one doesn’t have to be sacrificed and education is the foundation of everything.
In the House:
Budget disagreements triggered this election. Stadium debate continues. The majority of people I have talked about have said they didn’t want to spend the public money on it – I would represent their voices in Parliament. I’ll raise education equity, skills gaps, mental health support, and practical regional investment – what delivers real outcomes for people and future growth. I will represent the values of Braddon with honour and respect.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
This election was called over budget instability. I’ll focus on education, early skills training, pathways into jobs, mental health in schools and practical investment that strengthens our region, our people and Tasmania’s future.
Why you, why now?
Vision led. People first. Education focused. Braddon’s future deserves bold, practical leadership. I tell my kids all the time – if you don’t like how things are – it’s up to you to change them.
Joel Badcock – independent
Political background:
I was previously involved with the Liberal Party but now proudly stand as an independent candidate, driven by a commitment to transparency, accountability, and innovation, something that I believe the Liberals have lost. My political philosophy is shaped by real-world experience, extensive travel, and understanding the impact of effective governance on communities. I believe strongly in evidence-based, practical solutions rather than partisan politics or ideological battles. My principles revolve around efficiency, harnessing technology (especially AI and automation) to streamline government functions, reducing bureaucratic waste, and ensuring that every policy directly benefits the people of Tasmania.
I’m a politician focused on achieving genuine results for my community.
About you, personally:
I’m 20 years old and have been employed as an AI and Automation Officer for the last two years. I am involved in entrepreneurial ventures including firewood sales and App development. Having epilepsy, I navigate the world without driving, understanding resilience firsthand. I am deeply committed to fitness, outdoor adventures (Kokoda Track, Aussie 10 Peaks, Overland Track) and continuous self-development, including leadership training (RYLA). I actively participate in my local community as Treasurer of the Devonport Table Tennis Club and previously served in the Devonport Youth Advisory Group.
My global experiences in 12 countries have broadened my perspectives on politics, economics, and society.
Your electorate and its key issues?
Braddon is a community with immense potential but faces significant challenges including inadequate healthcare, rising housing costs, limited employment opportunities and a declining, ageing population.
Health infrastructure requires urgent investment to attract and retain residents and improve economic productivity. Housing shortages and excessive development red tape from TasWater and TasNetworks hinder affordable housing projects. Educational pathways need to accommodate vocational training alongside academic education to empower youth effectively.
My proposals focus on innovative economic growth, targeted health infrastructure improvements, streamlined housing development processes and better educational strategies tailored for local needs, ensuring a vibrant, sustainable future for everyone in Braddon.
In the House:
I strongly oppose the stadium project in its current form; investing a billion dollars without clarity on design, usage, or economic returns is irresponsible and unfair to Tasmanians. While open to sensible privatisation if it demonstrably benefits public services, I advocate for rigorous oversight. Development Applications (DAPs) must be streamlined, transparent, and efficient. Justice-related legislation needs sensible reform focusing on prevention and rehabilitation, not merely punishment. I’ll champion meaningful improvements in healthcare, housing accessibility and economic policies prioritising job creation and innovation.
My voice will always reflect community priorities, not party politics, ensuring accountability and fairness in decisions impacting all Tasmanians.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
No, I cannot in good conscience provide confidence and supply to any party advocating for the stadium in its current, flawed form.
This project has been rushed, lacks transparent costings, and disregards clear expert recommendations, including critical planning commission concerns. Tasmania faces immediate, pressing issues in healthcare, housing, education and economic stability, requiring urgent and responsible investment. Supporting such an ill-conceived, poorly justified expenditure would betray my fundamental commitments to transparency, accountability and sensible spending. My support will align only with parties dedicated to addressing Tasmania’s genuine priorities, responsibly and transparently, putting community interests clearly ahead of political vanity projects.
Why you, why now?
Tasmania urgently needs fresh leadership, youthful energy and innovative ideas. At 20, I would be Australia’s youngest independent ever elected, bringing a unique perspective unclouded by traditional party politics. My experiences as an AI professional, entrepreneur, community volunteer and someone managing life with a disability provide me with genuine insight into the diverse challenges facing our community. Now is precisely the moment for a candidate committed to harnessing technology, reducing wasteful spending and driving effective solutions on healthcare, housing and education.
Voting for me ensures passionate advocacy, informed by firsthand experience, delivering practical, future-focused solutions to Tasmania’s critical issues today, not later.
Adrian Pickin – Shooters, Fishers & Farmers Party
Political background:
Not a career politician, someone who cares about local communities with a background in policy and regulations. Focused on practical, community-first solutions—not ideology agendas. A members of Shooters Fishers & Farmers Party.
About you, personally:
Active in wildlife conservation. Passionate about local issues, fairness and doing what’s right—not what’s popular. I live in the electorate of Braddon and enjoy being outdoors which the NW is famous for.
Your electorate and its key issues?
Braddon needs action on housing, healthcare and cost of living relief. It’s why I propose $150 electricity reduction. Supportive of community services with a sensible balance of social, environment and economic.
In the House:
I will work constructively, ask tough questions and put Braddon community first—I will look to find the fair and right balance for the community . No backroom deals, just common-sense representation.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
No. I will not support any government that proceeds with the Macquarie Point stadium special legislation. It’s wasteful, unnecessary and wrong for Tasmania. However I will however respect the planning commission process.
Why you, why now?
Because Braddon deserves someone who listens, shows up, and stands strong—putting people before politics and locals before ideological agendas.
I’m here to represent you and to look at evidence based solutions.
Dami Barnes – independent
Political background:
I like to think one can be a leader through compassion, empathy, respect and collaboration. The health of oneself (emotional, mental, physical) is what guides my inner compass. As misguided as it may seem, I believe in the good of people and that our decisions should help uplift us all.
And yes I am a bit of a Greenie at heart.
I have previously been a candidate in the 2018 South Australian election for the Greens in the seat of Black.
I have previously been a candidate for Local Council City of Unley in South Australia.
About you, personally:
I have a Bachelor Degree in Math and Computer Science. I teach pole dancing at Devonport Pole Fitness, a business that I share ownership of with a wonderful friend. You can find me volunteering at my local gym to help people with diabetes find exercises to help keep active. I love old classic Toyotas (My favourite is the Celica).
My employment history is around asset management and IT systems management. I have worked in state and local government spheres for most of my working career, I am proud to support our public services as best as I can. I have had my fair share of mental health issues and continue to do so, but I do the best I can for being aware of my health and wellbeing and hope for others to also have the resources to look after themselves as well.
Your electorate and its key issues?
Corruption in politics and political donations influencing decisions that should be for the betterment of all Tasmanians. More public scrutiny in a timely manner should help build confidence in the decisions that politicians make and whether those decisions are influenced or not.
Health Care within the north west coast. I will be honest and say that providing solutions for such a complicated topic is somewhat harder to provide, especially from an armchair perspective. It feels the government could lead on the front foot here that rather than cutting and outsourcing, lets bring things in house. Create a competitive market for private entities to compete/compare. A similar argument could be said for improving housing supply through public works as well, given it should (hopefully…see the first point) remove the opportunism seeking from the industry.
End native forest logging and maybe just think what Tasmania is known for.
In the House:
I have proudly served the public at state and local levels for a lot of my career, I strongly advocate for our public service. We do the best job we can with the resources we are limited to. Is it perfect, Nothing is, but I would stand by the public service any day of the week.
The stadium… I would rather the spending (if we really have the money to spend) go towards health care.
Can there be a middle ground, yes. But in the current guise it feels like we are being forced into a corner by a bully.
As someone who likes building things (on a small scale), I have encountered my fair share of unnecessary red tape, but at large scale at the expense of our environment and ecology, not so much. Those impacts always seem to be overlooked.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
Given both major parties support the stadium, doesn’t that mean the numbers are already there for support regardless of what my views on it are?
For the record, in it’s current capacity, I can’t see how the stadium wouldn’t be a financial noose around the neck of the state. We talk about the capital cost which are already exorbitant, but nobody talks about the lifetime costs of maintenance and upkeep (and that roof with sun damage….. eek).
It feels like we are being held to ransom by an entity that is providing the least amount of financial support knowing full well the financial situation the state is in. Surely there is a middle ground that won’t lead to inevitable cost blowouts (I also have a soft spot for Launceston being more accessible to the north west coast).
Why you, why now?
Well I would have tried earlier but trying to make ends meet financially is usually the first priority. I am a firm believer in that if you want to see a positive change in politics then you have to be part of that solution. I have always been interested in politics and do believe in our political system.
I just want to show that there are other ways to represent and support our community that doesn’t feel like there is some kind of underhanded dealings going on and doesn’t tarnish the perspective that people have of the political sphere.
Gatty Burnett – independent
Political background:
I’m a child advocate committed to systemic reform. Every child deserves safety and protection, whether at home, in care, or institutions. I previously ran for the Legislative Council in Montgomery, House of Reps 2024 and Legislative Council in Murchison.
About you, personally:
I’m a tenacious political conversationalist and co-host of the Circular 2 Heads podcast, passionate about addressing Tasmania’s systemic toxic culture and driving meaningful change. My TikTok account @gattyfortassie showcases my personality meaningful change.
Your electorate and its key issues?
In my electorate, key issues include systemic child safety failures, a lack of transparency in government and Tasmania’s entrenched toxic culture. I propose urgent reforms to protect children in all settings, real-time disclosure of political and lobbying activities and stronger accountability mechanisms.
The Truth Tasmania initiative is central to this work—cutting through polished PR to share real stories often ignored, driving awareness and reform.
It’s about amplifying voices silenced too long and pushing for genuine cultural change in Tasmania.
In the House:
Tasmania’s justice system needs meaningful reforms. I want to establish a partnership with the Behavioural Economics Team (Beta) hosted by the Prime Minister and Cabinet to design evidence-based policies that improve outcomes for vulnerable communities. This includes working closely with the Beta team to ensure public policy consistently puts children first.
The Truth Tasmania initiative seeks to hold decision-makers accountable on major public projects like the stadium and DAP. By partnering with the Beta team, we can apply data-driven insights to ensure such investments genuinely benefit the community and prioritise essential needs or if they need to be scraped.
Real-time disclosure reforms and improvements to right-to-information laws are critical to increasing transparency, empowering the public to hold government, lobbyists and developers accountable throughout the decision-making process.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
I will not offer supply for the stadium because constituents I speak to in Braddon do not support it, the project requires transparency and essential community services need to be prioritised.
Why you, why now?
I’ve spent years advocating for Tasmania’s vulnerable, especially children and I’ve seen how ignoring hard truths allows harm and corruption to continue unchecked. Truth Tasmania exists to expose these realities, spark honest conversations and drive the urgent reforms we can no longer delay. Why me? Because I bring relentless passion, lived experience, and a fearless voice to challenge the status quo and tackle corruption head-on. Why now? Because Tasmania can no longer afford silence, our children and communities need truth, transparency and real reform today.
Tasmania must embrace technology and behavioral science to create smarter, more effective policies that protect vulnerable communities, promote transparency, and confront corruption directly.
Ernst Millet did not supply his photograph. This avatar is from his FB campaign page.
Ernst Millet – independent
Political background:
I have no political affiliations. I am running as a independent and a party could offer me a million in donations and I would still say no. My integrity is mine and not for sale. I have more integrity in my little toe than the Liberal and Labour parties combined. I only have an objective view of topics based on logic and reason, science and evidence. Emotive or political position topics are irrelevant. Show me the facts and I will make an informed and educated decision. Unlike previous politicians hiding behind their personal beliefs and refusing to support their constituents demands by saying “we will have a Conscience vote” so I WON’T represent my constituents, I WILL be listening to the electorate.
For too long the electorate has been the financial cash cow of the incompetent political parasites of the Liberal and Labour party governments. It is time for change.
About you, personally:
I grew up on a country property in WA riding motor bikes and shooting rabbits as you did back then. I got my first job at 12 sweeping floors at a cabinet making business on Saturday mornings. At 15 I started working as Service station attendant and when quiet I would help the mechanic fix cars. I joined the RAAF at 18 and spend eight years deploying around the country and overseas. I then opened a sports medicine practice for 8 years before returning to uni to study paramedics. My father moved to Tasmania in 2003 and I visited him regularly. I became a paramedic in Melbourne in 2008. I worked at three of the busiest stations but unfortunately over time, developed PTSD and I was “medically retired” (kicked to the kerb). I returned to Tasmania to rebuild my life and support my elderly father.
Your electorate and its key issues?
I first travelled to Tasmania in 2003 when my father moved here. I did my second paramedic placement in Devonport and saw first hand the issues in ambulance, hospital ramping, lower socioeconomic disadvantage, lower generational education attainment, high unemployment, high recreational drug and alcohol use as well as the problems associated with that. I understood why young people left for the mainland for better opportunities. Since then, under both major parties, not much has improved.
Standards of living continue to fall, cost of living skyrockets and all the while the political parties continue ‘politicking” and refuse to govern. Health, housing and education are under funded at the expense of subsidising mining, forestry, racing and the gambling industries while going further into debt. Now they want to add a billion dollar stadium we can’t afford and don’t NEED. This delusional incompetence is going to bankrupt the state. Enough already!
In the House:
I DON’T support a THIRD Stadium but I do support a Tasmanian AFL team. The unconscionable AFL contract should be renegotiated. The AFL is effectively blackmailing Tasmanians and Rockcliff’s ego signed a contract the state will never be able to pay. The Integrity Commission needs to have teeth, back room deals need to end, transparency is essential and releasing redacted documents under FOI isn’t transparent. We require an Independent investigation of the Spirits fiasco, the Spirits 3rd pier screw up, they forgot the Spirit LNG refuelling depot. The the multinationals political donations need to be exposed, taxes shouldn’t be wasted on THIRD stadiums while people wait 18 months for surgery.
The list of problems from 11 years of Liberal mis-management will take time and hard decisions but we CANNOT continue down this path of increasing debt. Solutions are available just not from the Liberal/Labour parties.
Will you provide confidence and supply to a party which is proceeding with a stadium as a policy position?
I truly hope we remove the Liberal “Government” and Labor “opposition” of the two party system that hasn’t governed in decades. I would love to see independents, micro parties and minor parties in EVERY seat forming a 35 seat Government, of the people, by the people, for the people. A TRUE representative democracy that our forefathers incorporated in the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Australia Act 1901. Good legislation gets raised and passed. poor legislation gets rejected. Every one cooperates to benefit of the people of the state and not political party politics, political donators, lobbyists and multinationals.
I will simply do what is in the best interest of the people who elect me.
Why you, why now?
I have sworn to served to defend the county, her people and Constitution of the Commonwealth of Australia. That oath didn’t end when I took off the uniform. All I have seen of politicians for the last decades is the majority of them are self serving, nest feathering hypocritical, lying so and so’s with very few upholding their integrity and honour.
I have ZERO interest in politics. The last few months of legislative garbage being produced by the Liberals in the name of ‘public safety” has crossed a line. That level of incompetence is intolerable. Anti protest laws that had to be taken to the High Court to be shown to un-constitutional should NEVER have been raised in the first place.
Politicians refusing to listen…enough is enough.
Time to bring integrity back into government and the Liberals and Labour have proved it ISN’T them.
No information received on other independent and minor party candidates.
Tasmanian Times (TT) is a community-based news and current affairs service covering the island state of Tasmania. It exists to provide a diverse view of Tasmanian issues. TT creates and supports independent media content utilising the best of modern technologies and tried-and-true practices of public-interest journalism.
Support us in expanding our coverage and developing new content by and for Tasmanians.
New initiatives on the way include:
- a weekly podcast covering current affairs
- a revamped website
- a monthly cartoon competition
- a user-friendly app for both Android and Apple devices
- a weekly roundup of key stories