Corio is one of the most economically and socially diverse electorates in Australia. It is home to people juggling rising rents, insecure work, cost-of-living pressure, health stresses, climate impacts, and the need for decent local infrastructure.
Richard Marles has represented Corio for about 19 years. As Deputy Prime Minister, he currently holds one of the most powerful positions in the country. But many people in Corio are asking a simple question:
What is Richard Marles doing for us in Corio?
As Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Mr Marles has chosen to prioritise:
- AUKUS commitments with President Trump in the US
- alignment with US strategic priorities
- massive defence spending
- weapons manufacturing and military expansion
- Canberra power politics
Meanwhile, Corio continues to face:
- housing stress
- rising inequality
- underinvestment in local services and prevention
- lousy or absent public transport options
- limited transparency or community consultation on major decisions
- climate risks that demand leadership, not delay
This rises major questions about representation and priorities. When an MP’s national and international roles overshadow the everyday needs of their electorate, democracy suffers.
A community like Corio deserves an independent representative who is present, accountable, and focused on local wellbeing.
That’s why we’re starting Voices of Corio.
We believe Corio deserves:
– genuine listening, not scripted messaging
– courage to question party lines
– leadership that puts people, place, and future generations first
If you feel unheard, sidelined, or taken for granted, you’re not alone. Let’s start a different conversation.
Join and support #VoicesOfCorio:
Voices of Corio is an open network of volunteers who want to help independent candidates get elected at the federal election.