08/03/2026
One of the most liberating decisions I’ve made in recent years was resigning from the Liberal Party.
Seeing recent news reports about the party’s preference arrangements prompted some reflection and reminded me why I made that decision. I’ve never looked back.
At some point, you have to decide whether loyalty to a political machine matters more than loyalty to your principles. For me, integrity and accountability are not negotiable.
When political strategy begins to override clearly stated values, it naturally raises questions about what a party truly stands for.
Walking away from that party structure has been incredibly freeing. It allows me to work with good people from all sides of politics and judge them by their character and actions rather than their party badge.
In particular, over the past 18 months, I have been grateful that this independence has allowed me to focus on work that genuinely brings people together. Supporting community initiatives, connecting businesses, highlighting leaders through Engaging Conversations, building bridges across various regional and metropolitan parts of Australia by celebrating meaningful connections and giving more people a voice, and continuing to serve my community through frontline emergency response.
The journey hasn’t always been easy. At times, there has been pressure, including legal threats, aimed at discouraging me from speaking openly about the values I believe in.
Standing up for what you believe in isn’t always comfortable. But when the principles matter, they are worth standing up for.
That is what continues to drive me. I’m still here and more determined than ever to keep doing the work I believe I was meant to do.
Like many Australians, actions matter far more than slogans. People want to see genuine efforts that strengthen communities and support those who step up to make a difference.
As I start the week ahead and reflect on the road in front of me, I’m reminded there is still plenty of meaningful work to be done. Strengthening communities, bringing people together and supporting those who are making a positive difference.
I’ll continue working with good people wherever they are, Labor, Liberal, independent or otherwise. What matters most to me is character, integrity and a genuine commitment to the community, and there are some really great people on all sides. More power to them!
As the new week begins and I look forward to catching up with some incredible people doing meaningful work, I remind myself of something simple.
Being an independent free thinker does not weaken your voice.
It makes it harder for anyone to control it.
