McPherson Matters launched their non-partisan community listening report after 7 months of work, with 49 kitchen table conversations and 250 participants.

Please check out the full report at McPherson Listening Report (mcphersonmatters.org)

Major Findings

• the community did not feel represented by the major parties
• we need to tackle housing affordability and the cost of living
• deep concern about the challenges for younger generations
• we need integrity and honesty in our government
• we want leadership who thinks long-term and tackles climate resiliency

Local issues in McPherson

• Participants raised concerns about transportation on the southern end of the Gold Coast, including growing traffic congestion, public transport access, and criticised the extension of the Light Rail extension to Coolangatta.
• Housing affordability and rising rents also pose challenges for residents. Overdevelopment in beachside suburbs is a concern.
  
• There is a need for more medium-rise vertical housing developments so as to accommodate population growth while preserving green spaces.
  
• Participants highly prioritized preserving the natural environment and preparing for the impacts of climate change.
  
• Participants emphasized the need for greater local attention and services to address social issues of youth crime, homelessness, mental health, and domestic violence

State or Federal issues in McPherson 

• The urgency to address climate change emerged as the most pressing concern.
  
• Issues related to government transparency, accountability, and defence spending were highlighted.
  
• More needs to be done address housing affordability, cost of living, and inequality, including tax reforms.
  
• Concerns raised about the education sector and health system include equitable education opportunities, more access to mental health services and addressing an overburdened public hospital system.
  
• There are also calls for better integration of refugees and meaningful action to address inequalities faced by First Nations people.
  
• There is deep concern about the challenges younger generations of Australians face

We would like to thank Judy McLennan and Leah Stacpoole for their amazing dedication in conducting these community conversations and creating this report.