Grant Hardwick’s Policies – A Better Future for Riverina

Policies That Matter

People Before Politics

As a true independent, I will always put people before party politics. This isn’t about sitting on the fence — it’s about standing firmly for what matters to the people of the Riverina. I’m not bound by party lines or pressured to follow a party agenda. Instead, I’ll assess each issue on its own merits, listen carefully to the views of our local communities, and vote accordingly.

Whether it’s healthcare, education, infrastructure, jobs, or the environment, I’ll take the time to understand how every decision impacts our region directly. I will engage with residents, local leaders, and experts to ensure I am fully informed. Being independent means I answer only to you — the people of the Riverina — and not to a party room in Canberra. My commitment is to make sure your voice is heard, your concerns are addressed, and your future is protected. It’s time for real representation that puts people first, not politics. That’s what I stand for.

Advocacy For Farmers

Our farmers are the backbone of the Riverina and deserve strong, independent advocacy that truly understands their challenges. As your representative, I will fight to protect water rights, ensure fair access, and push for policies that put our local producers first — not big corporations or city-based decision-makers. We need greater investment in pest and weed control, support for biosecurity, and the preservation of prime agricultural land for future generations.

Drought relief and disaster recovery packages must be timely, targeted, and practical — not lost in red tape. I’ll work to reduce the bureaucratic burden on farmers so they can focus on what they do best: feeding our nation. From soil health to sustainable innovation, our farmers need support, not neglect. I will always listen to our agricultural communities, champion their needs in Parliament, and ensure that rural voices are not only heard but acted upon. Real representation starts in the paddock, not the party room.

Investment in Infrastructure

The Riverina needs real, sustained investment in infrastructure to meet the demands of today and prepare for the future. Our roads, rail lines, bridges, and communications networks are falling behind — putting safety at risk and holding back economic potential. Federal investment is essential to upgrade outdated infrastructure, reduce freight and transport costs, and support our farmers, businesses, and families.

Improving regional roads and bridges will enhance safety, boost productivity, and open up new opportunities for trade and tourism. Reliable public transport and digital connectivity will keep communities connected, reduce isolation, and improve access to services. Infrastructure is more than just concrete and cables — it’s about building stronger, safer, and more resilient communities. I will advocate for smart, future-focused projects that deliver long-term benefits and real value to the people of the Riverina — not just short-term promises.

Focus on Regional Healthcare

Access to quality healthcare shouldn’t depend on your postcode. Many communities across the Riverina face critical shortages in doctors, nurses, emergency services, and mental health support. Patients are often forced to travel long distances for basic care, while local hospitals remain underfunded and understaffed.

We must incentivise healthcare professionals to live and work in the regions by offering competitive support, career development, and family-friendly opportunities. Increased federal funding will help attract and retain staff, improve aged care services, expand telehealth options, and strengthen emergency response systems. Mental health care must be a priority, with services embedded in communities, not hours away. Investing in regional healthcare means healthier people, stronger communities, and less pressure on overstretched city hospitals. I will fight for a healthcare system that delivers for the Riverina — timely, reliable, and close to home.

Access To Education

Every young person in the Riverina deserves the same educational opportunities as those in the cities. But too often, rural students face challenges like teacher shortages, outdated facilities, limited subject choices, and unreliable internet access. These barriers impact learning outcomes and limit future opportunities. We need greater investment in regional schools, TAFE, and apprenticeship programs to help students stay local and thrive. Supporting teachers with housing, training, and incentives will improve retention and attract new educators to the region.

Expanding digital learning tools and improving connectivity will unlock more choices for students no matter where they live. Strengthening higher education and vocational pathways in the Riverina will grow a skilled local workforce and keep communities vibrant. Education is the foundation of opportunity — and I’ll fight to ensure every child and young adult in our region has the tools they need to succeed.

Telecommunications

Reliable telecommunications are no longer a luxury — they’re essential for everyday life in the Riverina. From running a business to accessing education, healthcare, and emergency services, fast and dependable internet and mobile coverage are critical. Yet many rural communities still face black spots, slow speeds, and unreliable connections that limit access to telehealth, remote learning, and flexible work.

This digital divide holds back economic growth and puts lives at risk during natural disasters. We need urgent investment to expand mobile coverage, upgrade broadband infrastructure, and ensure fair pricing for regional users. Improved connectivity will support precision agriculture, help small businesses compete, and keep families better connected. I’ll push for policies that put rural communications on par with city standards. The Riverina deserves modern, resilient telecommunications that empower our communities and future-proof our region.

Authorised by Grant Hardwick, Argalong Road, Lacmalac