STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Ms URQUHART (Braddon) (13:44): Yesterday was International Day of Democracy, which recognised the many ways people can be involved in strengthening the democratic institutions that serve our communities. It is also a reminder that democracy can't be taken for granted. Violence, aggression and organised disruption are being used to discourage participation, silence legitimate voices and undermine public confidence.

During the 2025 campaign in Braddon, I witnessed opposition campaigners disrupting legitimate activity around polling booths. People were approached and badgered while still in their vehicles, as they arrived by car at early voting centres. Volunteers faced aggressive conduct, as large groups of opposition volunteers and Brethren gathered outside polling booths.

Braddon is a close-knit community. We know and respect one another, regardless of how we vote. The problem with campaigners brought into the electorate who organised aggression was repeated across Braddon.

They did not represent the values of our community. Their attempts to outnumber and drown out other volunteers were disturbing. Worse still were groups who arrived at Labor events acting like a mob, hijacking activities and frightening members of the public.

Democracy is not strengthened by who can shout the loudest, gather the biggest mob or make others feel unsafe. Democracy belongs to us all, and every one of us has a duty to protect it, to practise it and to pass it on stronger than we found it.