New MLC Tim Clifford.
Camera IconNew MLC Tim Clifford. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

East Metro MLC Clifford uses first speech to call on young people to get involved in politics

Sarah BrookesMidland Kalamunda Reporter

alls on young to get involved

EAST Metropolitan MLC Tim Clifford used his inaugural speech in State Parliament on June 13 to rally young people to step up and take a more active role in politics.

“I call out to all the young people in this state,” he said.

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“This is the people’s parliament. It is your parliament. Parliament is not a place reserved for the elites of this world.

“It is for everyone, and each and everyone one of you should have the opportunity to stand where I’m standing right now.”

Mr Clifford, one of four Greens elected to the Legislative Council, has set up his office in Midland.

He said he was motivated to stand for election after sitting with friends in a park planning to do something about fighting for a fair deal for all.

“I’d been seeing more and more homeless people on the streets of my neighbourhood and reading headlines about an alarming decrease in renewable energy investment alongside steady increases in power costs,” he said.

“I put aside my career as a public servant and threw my hat in the ring as a candidate for the East Metropolitan region.”

Mr Clifford said the importance of a fair go for everyone was close to his heart.

“Growing up we didn’t have much, but we didn’t ask for much either,” he said.

“We did, however, live under a roof provided by the state and also relied on health care provided by the state.

“We knew and respected the value of these services, services which are at the core of our community and which should mean that no person, child or family goes without the home, health care or education they need.”

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