Suzie Holt, Independent Candidate for Groom, has pledged a new dawn in politics when she is elected having taken Federal Member Garth Hamilton to task for his recent comments targeting the Toowoomba Regional Council, accusing him of deflecting responsibility for his own shortcomings in delivering results for the region.
“Blaming Council for regional challenges is a transparent attempt to save face ahead of the Federal Election. While I don’t always agree with Council, I acknowledge their limitations and the critical need for stronger federal funding to empower local infrastructure projects,” Holt said.
“As the next Federal Member for Groom, I will tear down the barriers dividing Council from their federal representative and begin a new era of collaboration to secure the resources and support that our region so desperately deserves. I will ensure an open-door policy for the Mayor, Councillors, State Members, and the entire community because it’s time to stop wasting time on party politics and start getting results.”
Holt emphasised that local councils alone cannot resolve the region’s infrastructure challenges without proper financial backing. “Councils like Toowoomba Regional Council are stretched too thin. They can’t deliver the infrastructure we need without adequate funding. It’s the federal government’s responsibility to step up and provide the resources required to create lasting improvements for our community.”
As part of her commitment to supporting the regions, Holt outlined an ambitious, actionable plan she will negotiate with the government of the day to address the pressing needs of Groom and regional Australia:
- Passenger Rail and Regional Public Transport: Holt will champion the development of a passenger rail network connecting Toowoomba to Brisbane. This project will link the Darling Downs to Queensland’s capital, creating jobs and opportunities that enable locals to thrive without leaving the region.
- A National Regional Policy: Holt will advocate for a federal policy to ensure the 30% of Australians living outside major cities receive their fair share of national resources, including 30% of the social and affordable housing budget.
- Targeted Regional Development: By fighting for fairer public funding and stronger support for regional councils, Holt will help build a prosperous and sustainable future for Groom.
“Unlike Garth Hamilton, I’m not here to point fingers or play the blame game. I’m here to deliver solutions. Our region deserves leaders who take responsibility and work tirelessly for progress, not those who pass the buck,” Holt said
Holt’s vision extends beyond blame and rhetoric. Her campaign is built on delivering real, tangible outcomes for Groom and ensuring the region’s growth is supported by federal leadership that listens and acts.
“Our community deserves better than political distractions. I will grow this city and its surrounds bigger and better than ever by investing in the future—through transport infrastructure, housing, and strong partnerships with our council,” Holt added.
With the Federal Election fast approaching, Suzie Holt is positioning herself as the candidate ready to lead Groom into a prosperous future.
Media Contact: Josh: 0422 058 048 | [email protected]