Voices of Farrer has announced it has endorsed Michelle Milthorpe as an independent candidate for the seat of Farrer in the next federal election.
Mrs Milthorpe grew up in Cootamundra and has lived in the Farrer electorate for more than 20 years.
After living the country life for so long, she said she wants to represent and reflect the values of regional communities.
“I want to be a genuine representative of the people, someone who reflects the values of the electorate, stands up for regional communities and delivers outcomes for them,” she said.
“When the people of Farrer look at me, I hope they see parts of themselves reflected back — in my actions, words and decision making.”
Ms Milthorpe has lived a full life before trying her hand at politics.
She is a wife and mother to three daughters, a former teacher, netball coach and a small business owner.
Most notably, she was instrumental in securing $64.3 million from the NSW Government to extend the Child Sexual Offence Evidence Scheme to all kids in regional NSW.
For Mrs Milthorpe, this was when she began to realise that regional Australia is often overlooked by city-centric policies made by major political parties.
She emphasised that in this day and age, those in regional areas should not be struggling to access basics.
“In the 21st century, regional Australians shouldn't have to beg for basics such as safer roads, reliable telecommunications and access to quality healthcare,” she said.
Mrs Milthorpe is adamant about representing the diverse needs of the Farrer electorate, with social justice and equity for regional Australians at the forefront of her agenda.
She plans to visit the many communities of Farrer to listen and learn from them.
Mrs Milthorpe hopes to collaborate with the people of Farrer to develop solutions and lead the way to create a place where all members of the community can thrive