CITIES AND HEALTH TO DEFINE INDEPENDENT CLARK MP’S FOCUS

• Working constructively across politics and all tiers of government, and community groups to deliver practical outcomes.

• Better planning and reliable public transport to support liveable, affordable cities and strong communities.

• Climate resilience and environmental responsibility embedded in decision-making.

• Strong investment in preventive health alongside high-quality acute care and increased support for hospital avoidance programs.

• Healthier, more connected communities as the foundation of a strong economy.

Independent Clark MP Helen Burnet will work hard to make cities and health the two defining priorities of her work in Tasmania’s Parliament.

“They’re simple headlines, but they encompass so much of what I care about,” Ms Burnet said.

“When we talk about our cities, we’re talking about housing, planning, public transport and the cost of living. We’re talking about decisions we make now that shape the lives of future generations.”

Ms Burnet said she would work constructively across the political spectrum and with all three tiers of government to improve outcomes for Tasmanians.

“Better planning and a reliable public transport system are essential if we want cities that are easier and safer to live in, more affordable and more productive,” she said.

Unless public transport is reliable and effective, people are forced to rely on cars. That drives up household costs, increases congestion and emissions, and limits opportunity.”

Ms Burnet said preparing cities for the impacts of climate change must be central to decision-making.

“Climate resilience isn’t optional, it’s responsible planning. It protects communities, supports long-term economic stability and reduces costs down the track.”

Preventive health will be the second major focus of Ms Burnet’s work as an Independent.

“Nothing is more important than the health of Tasmanians,” she said.

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“As a former health professional, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of investing not just in acute care, but in prevention, helping people to stay well, safe, connected and living in their own homes if possible.”

Ms Burnet said a “cradle-to-grave” approach to health would help deliver better outcomes and better value.

“The same thinking will not fix the health mess and demand for hospital care. Tasmania’s Health Minister Bridget Archer should be praised for embedding preventive health across all government sectors. If we invest in this earlier, along with workplace safety and community wellbeing, we reduce pressure on hospitals and improve quality of life.”

Ms Burnet said strong cities and a healthier population were fundamental to a strong economy.

“Responsible financial management is an absolute requirement if we are able to afford necessary public services and replace ageing infrastructure. This should not come at the cost of skimping on vital social services nor prioritising the wrong infrastructure projects.

“I would be particularly concerned if the government went down the track to sell publicly owned assets in the face of mounting financial costs.

“These priorities are deeply connected. Healthier people and well-functioning cities support productivity, sustainability, and long-term economic growth,” she said.

“I’m focused on practical, local solutions that strengthen communities and underpin our economy, including smarter approaches to planning, transport and waste.

“As an Independent, I’ll be able to work across the Parliament and all three tiers of government to find solutions to some of our state’s most vital challenges.”