This week Q+A hits the road, broadcasting live from Mildura in north-western Victoria.
The Murray River city is a long way from Canberra – are politicians prioritising the issues that really matter to those living in the regions?
Health services in Mildura and surrounding areas are stretched to the limit, with more GPs desperately needed and a hospital system at breaking point. But what do towns need right now to help ease the squeeze on resources? And what’s the plan for attracting more essential workers to regional centres across Australia?
And where will people choosing to settle in Mildura live? The region is in the grips of a rental crisis, with prices soaring and renters left scrambling to try and secure the few properties available. The cost of living is also biting – as food and fuel eat up more and more of the weekly budget. How are decision-makers tackling these issues?
The community is still recovering from devastating floods just months ago, while recent fish kills signal that all is not right in the river system. In a changing climate, who is looking after the regions?
And as politicians argue over what a Voice to Parliament will mean for regional and remote Indigenous communities – what do First Nations people on the ground actually think of the proposal? Will it make any difference to their lives? Or has trust in politics degraded so badly that the Voice cannot bridge the chasm between talk and action?
All this plus a special live performance from iconic Australian singer John Williamson.
On the panel this week
JOHN WILLIAMSON
Iconic singer-songwriter
After 43 years in the music industry, touring continuously for that period, John’s career is stronger than ever and he is still writing and recording new songs.
EMMA McBRIDE
Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health
Emma McBride is the Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health and Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and Federal Member for Dobell on the New South Wales Central Coast.
MICHAEL McCORMACK
Nationals Member for Riverina
Michael McCormack is The Nationals’ Federal Member for Riverina and the Shadow Minister for International Development and the Pacific.
BOB KATTER
Independent Member for Kennedy
Bob Katter is the Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) MP for the Queensland seat of Kennedy which he has held since 1993. Bob follows in the footsteps of his father, Bob Katter Sr, who held the seat for 24 years.
DARLENE THOMAS
Chief Executive of Mallee District Aboriginal Services
Darlene Thomas is a proud Barkindji woman and the Chief Executive of Mallee District Aboriginal Services. With over 25 years of experience working with local communities, Darlene has provided support services for victim / survivors.
