“I think it’s important that, as a politician, I never lose sight of the broad range of voters that I am seeking to represent as your local MP. Melbourne is, in its own right, one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the world, but the Melbourne electorate also covers a large amount of communities who’s interests at time couldn’t seem further away from the city of Melbourne.

And that’s why I wanted to come here today. While no-one would call Melbourne a rural seat, there are regional communities that I hope to represent, and so I think that I should come here and tell you why I deserve your vote.

Firstly, I’d like to talk about banking. Bank branches, especially for regional communities, are a key point, and of crucial importance for local residents. There are still many for whom online banking isn’t an option, and who rely on their local branches.

The problem is, you can’t trust the big four. All they do is mindlessly chase profit over the welfare of our communities – it is disgusting and un-Australian. Since the start of 2020, ANZ, to give an example, has closed down 152 branches across the country, including one in Ballarat East just earlier this year. And of course, right here in Ballan, the Commonwealth Bank branch closed down just four months ago, leaving only Bendigo Bank operating here.

What can we do about it? If the issue is profit, then communities will always lose. Firstly, we need to clean out these banks. The Hayne commission exposed a large degree of corruption and malfeasance within the big four banks, and we need to start properly implementing their recommendations and – crucially – punishing those responsible with criminal prosecutions where they are warranted. If corrupt or abusive actions were taken, they should be properly penalised.

But we can also help guarantee that regional towns across Australia have the banking connections they need guaranteed. As your local MP, I will support postal banking initiatives, which will help create local jobs, and guarantee financial security for millions of Australians. That is my pledge to you all today, and I hope that, come election day, you make the right choice. Thank you!”