In this Q&A series, we speak with Newcastle’s federal candidates to find out what they believe are the most pressing issues, how they plan to deliver change and why they want to be your number one vote on May 21.
In this second instalment, we meet One Nation candidate, Mark Watson.
Mark Watson is Newcastle’s federal candidate for One Nation. The rising cost of living and housing affordability are issues he plans to address if elected. As a chef and volunteer firefighter, representing the average Australian are among his top priorities.
Q. What do you think is the most important issue facing the
Newcastle electorate? How do you plan to address this?
A. I think the most important issue we face right now is the cost of living, coupled with housing affordability. It is becoming increasingly difficult for families to provide the basics to survive.
From the fuel we put in our cars to the food on our tables, prices are skyrocketing, all while our wages stagnate. The cost of rent is enormous, and that’s if you can even find a place. Those with a mortgage are about to see soaring interest rates which will only add to the financial burden. One Nation has a raft of sensible policies to help release the pressure and put Australians first. We will ensure we have a secure energy supply and not put the market at risk of shortages. We will return to a 90-day fuel security level and look at refining our own domestic supply of fuel.
Q. What will your top local priorities be in Parliament? What are your top priorities in regard to the wider domestic sphere?
A. My top priority in Parliament would be representing those who sent me there. It will mean being their voice and standing firm to represent them, ensuring their concerns do not fall on deaf ears. One Nation will advocate banning or slowing down foreign ownership of property to allow Australians the best opportunity to secure property themselves. We will also be pushing to reduce immigration to a sustainable level for a period of time, giving us the chance to build the required infrastructure to support a growing population.
Q. What skills, qualifications and background would guide you as a Federal Member of Parliament?
A. My background as a chef and a volunteer firefighter gives me the strength and ability to work under extreme pressure and solve problems, all while leaving little room for error. We listen, plan, adapt, overcome and succeed. This mentality applied to any aspect of life or work is a great guide.
Q. What differentiates you from the opposing parties?
A. What differentiates me from them is I am just the average Aussie battler, standing up for those around me, who, for too long, have been ignored and misrepresented by years of poor government. I will be honest, accountable and transparent. I will listen and I will fight for those around me. I am not for sale.
Q. Who are you preferencing?
A. The power of preferencing is in the voter’s hands alone – no party can tell you how you should use your vote. The best a party can do is make a suggestion.
Q. What is One Nation, and what does the party represent for those who may not know?
A. I urge those who are not familiar to look up our policies. They will most likely be surprised at how many they agree with. One Nation is a party for the people. We will continue to stand up for Australians to build a better future for our great nation. Now more than ever, we need to hold those who have failed us to account and keep those representing us honest.
Q. What is your perspective on Pauline Hanson’s COVID-19 Vaccination Status (Prevention of Discrimination) Bill 2021?
A. Our COVID policy is on our website and I can be contacted via mobile if people would like to talk more.
Q. Anything else Novocastrians should know?
A. It is time for a change or at very least rattle the cages. Ask yourself, does your sitting member listen to your needs? Does that member act upon your needs and best represent you?
For more information on the priorities and plans of the One Nation party, visit their website.
Maia O’Connor
Winner winner, chicken dinner
A pity no place to comment on the mandates in those questions
Hi Bev,
Thanks for your comment. Our journalist asked Mr Watson about the mandates, but he declined to comment. He referred anyone curious about the One Nation mandate policies to visit their website: https://www.onenation.org.au/covid
Thanks again!
I’ve read the policies and met the candidate and I find that many Aussies would agree with them. Thank you Novo News for taking the time to ask the questions some of don’t get the opportunity. Change is in the air. And the Labor parties tight grip in Newcastle might come to an end.