AUG2013_Put People First

Michael Gilliver

People often ask me why I would seek to become a politician.  It’s a good question.

I grew up in Strathpine, went to school at Bray Park State High, and now live in Murrumba Downs with my wife and kids. 

By day I teach History and English at Mueller College in Rothwell.  It’s a great job, and one I would be happy to do for many more years.

By night, however, I have been long pondering the state of politics in our nation.

When I tuck my kids in at night, I am reminded how important it is to make sure the Australia of tomorrow is well educated.  We cannot just keep relying on teachers to ‘make do’ under substandard conditions.  Our schools simply must be better resourced.

When a good friend loses their job, I am reminded of the value of employment and the inherent self worth that comes from financial security.  A good worker deserves their wages and should not live in fear of indiscriminate cuts for ideological reasons.

And when I waited in the hospital emergency room with my son a short time ago, and I saw the nurses giving their all to help sick people, I was reminded that now is not the time to wind back public health services.  We are a nation of friends, and making sure our mates are looked after, particularly in terms of their wellbeing, is something that should never be sacrificed at the altar of profitability.

Distilled to its simplest then, the desire to serve the Dickson electorate is really borne of the belief that a life well lived is a life lived for others.  Society is best served where politicians put people first.

That’s why I am seeking to be a politician.  As a member of Kevin Rudd’s team it is my hope to not stand above my community, but to stand alongside it.