Special Feature: Ryan Roundup  

Let’s hear from our key Ryan candidates!

In the leadup to the Federal Election this year, we reached out to our three major parties’ local candidates in the Ryan Electorate. We wanted to get to know them better and thought you might too. We asked each the same five questions.  

Elizabeth Watson-Brown MP 

Candidate for The Australian Greens and Member for Ryan 

Why are you standing as a Candidate for Ryan? 

Before being elected, I spent decades raising a family, building a career and running a small business. Frankly, I never intended to be a politician. But I’m concerned about the future world my grandkids will grow up in, and I believe our community deserves a strong, local voice in Parliament. I want to continue being that voice.  

What human quality do you think is most important as a politician and why? 

Integrity. I believe many of the problems we face right now are a result of politicians putting their donors’ interests first. I joined the Greens because they don’t take corporate donations, which means we’re beholden only to the community. 

Please list the 4 most important issues that you wish to help address for Ryan Residents:  

1. Environment and climate: support renewable energy, including rooftop solar, instead of approving new coal and gas or pursuing Dutton’s nuclear fantasies.  
2. Healthcare: bring dental and mental health into Medicare, funded by taxing big corporations and billionaires fairly.  
3. Housing: regulate banks to offer lower mortgage rates, and create a government-owned developer to build good quality affordable homes.  
4. Education: increase public school funding, provide $800 ‘back to school’ payments to parents, and bring back free uni and TAFE.  

Who inspires you most? And why? 

Bob Brown. Bob, like my father, was a medical doctor and I really admire that caring nature. Even now, he’s still caring and acting for other people and our natural world.  

Your favourite hobby or pastime? 

I love spending family time with my grandkids.  

Maggie Forrest 

Candidate for the Liberal National Party (LNP) 

Why are you standing as a Candidate for Ryan? 

I grew up in Ryan, and together with my husband I am now raising my family in this wonderful part of Brisbane. I want Ryan to be a place where people can afford to buy a house, raise a family, start a thriving small business and enjoy a happy and healthy retirement.  

What human quality do you think is most important as a politician and why? 

Kindness. People will always have different political views, but what is most important is how you treat others regardless of these. The role of an MP is to work to deliver positive outcomes for everyone in their community no matter their background and be a voice for those who need it most.  

Please list the 4 most important issues that you wish to help address for Ryan Residents: 

1. Cost of living: This is the number one issue raised with me across the electorate. 
2. Housing: It needs to be more affordable and available, and the LNP has a plan to deal with both supply and demand. 
3. Crime: As a practicing barrister, I want to use my extensive knowledge and experience in criminal law to help keep our community safe. 
4. Local infrastructure: We deserve infrastructure that meets the needs of our growing community. 

Who inspires you most? And why? 

My mum Ruth Forrest. My mum is my biggest inspiration. She is a breast cancer survivor and has taught me to cherish every day. Without her, I wouldn’t be who or where I am today. 

Your favourite hobby or pastime? 

When I’m not busy campaigning, I love staying fit by going to F45! 

Rebecca Hack 

Candidate for the Labor Party (ALP)

Why are you standing as a Candidate for Ryan? 

My parents taught me to step up when people need me. I became a foster carer as a way of acting, not just talking. I care deeply about our community and I’m running because I know the choice facing us. We need compassion, not cruelty.  We need action and outcomes, and I have a lifetime of experience getting things done. 

What human quality do you think is most important as a politician and why? 

You don’t walk away from problems when you care about the people they affect. I fought for my school because every child mattered to me. We changed lives through compassion and determination. These are the qualities we need in politics. 

Please list the 4 most important issues that you wish to help address for Ryan Residents:  

1. Tackling climate change: Labor has delivered 40% renewables already and we’re on track for 80% by 2030. Nuclear costs too much, takes too long and our environment matters too much to risk it.  
2. Easing cost of living / housing pressure: Delivering wage growth, building more homes, supporting renters and helping home buyers. 
3. Strengthening Medicare: Cheaper medicines, expanding bulk billing, delivering on women’s health and training more doctors. 
4. Investing in education: Reducing student debt, free TAFE and paid pracs. 

Who inspires you most? And why? 

Edith Cowan. Edith was Australia’s first female MP. She fought for better education and welfare and advocated for women, children, and the vulnerable. Her strength, courage, and compassion inspire and motivate me.  

Your favourite hobby or pastime? 

Riding my scooter around Brisbane / playing with my dog Pickles. 

Don’t forget to vote!