In the aftermath of COVID, the political scene has become transformed. The Liberal part has almost vanished and changed leadership twice. The Labour party has floundered with various political topics, such as cost of living, education and industry. A large portion of people feel betrayed and devastated by the impact COVID and its management had on their lives. These people are now turning to find hope in an alternative. That “other” option has manifested in two different ways, the rise of the independents and the rise of new political parties.

The rise of independents has flooded the ballot papers across Australia. Interestingly Senator Gerard Rennick from Queensland has setup the Gerard Rennick’s People First Party. If you have followed Senator Gerard’s commentary in parliament you will find that interestingly he has asked some very important questions and created debate for the good of all Australians. The hope that perhaps the People can have a representative voice as opposed to a direct voice in parliament has emerged.

For those in the know, the voice campaign started from a grass roots movement to create direct access for the people to have a say in parliament. That was where it started. How it ended up was that they created a government department called “The Voice” and it would have been a toy for government. In other words it wouldn’t have divided people, it would have created a government advisory department that was just another toy department. That was the reason a few who knew voted No. The rest just followed the wave of neigh sayers without knowing why.

Pip Clayden invited several people to attend on the 25th April 2025, following ANZAC services, to listen to Jody Clune and Maddison King. Unfortunately, Maddison was unable to make it. Well in any case, Jody Clune along with Maddison King stood up for WA as members of Gerard Rennick’s People First Party. Jody Clune spoke about unity, working as an auxiliary to the people and putting people first. There were a lot of heated comments and debate topics. Stretching the talks out for several hours as people opened up with their own views and asked that they be conveyed. Upon hearing the issues of culture change and the need to change it; there was a consensus that there is a need to create more people who are politically aware and embracing of their political duties. That is known for sure, and as we struggle with Australia’s strong masonic codes of conduct, “Don’t talk politics and religion.” we find ourselves in a place that has not been navigated by the average Australian since Federation.

It is a new landscape one that requires new ideas, Jody Clune, Maddison King and Gerard Rennick are all transforming the political arena with new intent and with a new set of dynamics. Ranging from economic models derived from a strong accounting background, through to cultural issues borne from living among Australians for generations.

The group that gathered at Pip Clayden’s event were satisfied with Jody’s responses and were asking for clear instructions on how to vote for her party. Overall, it was a successful event. As with many events that I attend I always leave people who stand up for us a word of Democratic nature. “Remember who backed you when or if you get to the places you reach, the People deserve that much respect.”