Can you get involved in this movement to do democracy differently?  

Dear All,

It's an exciting time for the Monash community, and we want you to be a part of something truly transformative.

Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) is just around the corner - Wednesday 11 October via Zoom, and we're extending a heartfelt invitation to you to join us.

Our AGM is more than just an event; it's an opportunity for you to be an active participant in reshaping the future of Australian politics. We want to ensure that our community's voices are represented in Federal Parliament and put Monash on the political map, just like Voices groups in the electorates of Indi, Goldstein, Kooyong and others have done before us.

Over the next 12 months, the V4M committee will determine the selection process to find an Independent Candidate that will best represent our community with integrity and transparency, on matters that are important to us. We want a representative in Canberra who's vote in Parliament will be directly informed by the wishes of the community they serve, rather than following the party line.

If you support people-led politics, now is the time to get involved!

Our mission is clear: to do politics differently. We believe that it's not enough to be passive observers of the political landscape. Instead, we need active voices, dedicated individuals, and a shared commitment to building a better future for Monash and the nation as a whole.

Here's why you should join the Voices for Monash Committee on 11 October 2023:

1. Be a Part of the Change: Voices for Monash is dedicated to redefining how politics works. We're committed to transparency, inclusivity, and representing the values that matter most to our community. By joining us at the AGM, you become an integral part of this change.

2. Contribute to Candidate Selection: Your voice matters. As part of the committee, you'll have a direct say in determining the process we will use for the selection of a candidate who will represent us in the Federal election.

3. Network and Connect: Our committee is not just about meetings; it's an opportunity to connect with like-minded people across our electorate who share a passion for change. Together, we can amplify our voices and drive our movement forward.

4. Shape Our Future: The decisions made during the coming year will shape the path we take in the coming years. Your involvement is vital in setting the direction and priorities of Voices for Monash.

5. Make a Difference: Ultimately, this is your chance to make a real difference in the political landscape of Monash and Australia. Your participation can impact policies, decisions, and the lives of countless individuals.

We believe in the power of collective action, and with your support, we can create a democracy that truly represents the aspirations and values of our community.

Only members living in Monash are able to vote at the AGM and in the Candidate Selection process.

You must actively confirm your membership and RSVP to the AGM by 5pm on 10 October 2023 in order to be eligible to vote and nominate for a position on the committee.

Let's stand together, inspire change, and make our voices heard. We look forward to seeing you online on 11 October at the Voices for Monash AGM.

Together, we can shape a brighter future.

Only confirmed members will be forwarded Minutes, Zoom link & Agenda.

If you are unable to attend but would like to be nominated for a position or submit a proxy vote, please email voicesformonash@gmail.com

Coming up very soon - don't miss out!

The Referendum is scheduled for Saturday 14th October, and many people still don't know how they indend to vote! If you feel like you need more information and would like to hear from various experts in person, register now for our FREE Voice to Parliament Community Information Evening on Wednesday 4th October!

Please also forward this invitation to anyone in your networks who may also be interested to come along - Its sure to be an insightful, informative and engaging evening!

Have you fact checked the Yes & No arguments?

The AEC has sent Referendum pamphlets out to all households containing the arguments for the Yes and No side. BUT, did you know the AEC is not required to fact check the contents of the pamphlets? There is still no requirement for truth in political advertising in Australia!

However, independent media outlet, the Guardian has fact checked the YES and NO pamphlets in detail, and we have provided links to them below:

YES Pamphlet Fact Check

NO Pamphlet Fact Check

Recent Issues in Politics -

AFFORDABLE HOUSING:

This month, Independent for Indi, Helen Haines MP, introduced the Unlocking Regional Housing Bill, seeking to increase the amount of Federal funding for housing flowing to regional and rural communities such as ours. While the Government has recently announced billions of dollars for housing, none of it is dedicated to fund regional areas.

The Bill specifically would increase funding for the infrastructure such as sewerage, water, drainage, roads and power, making affordable housing more accessible.

Helen also successfully secured amendments to the Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF) to deliver more for regional, rural and remote communities.

You can help pressure the government to increase funding to regional, rural and remote areas of Australia by signing Helen's petition here. 

If someone has forwarded you this email, you can sign-up to receive one directly to your inbox here.

If you'd like to get more involved, email us at voices4monash@gmail.com and let us know how you’d like to be part of this growing movement for citizen democracy.

Voices for Monash acknowledges the traditional owners of the lands on which we meet and work, including the lands of the Boonwurrung, Bunurong and Gunai Kurnai people,  and other Aboriginal lands and nations within this country. We pay our respects to the elders of these lands, past and present, and acknowledge that sovereignty has never been ceded.