Yes. Independents have proven they can shape national policy and deliver real outcomes—because they work for their communities, not a party.

In recent years, Independents in Parliament have:

• Helped establish the National Anti-Corruption Commission
• Strengthened climate action, doubling Australia’s renewable energy targets
• Introduced stronger penalties for parliamentary misconduct
• Secured protections for water from gas fracking
• Blocked offshore drilling near NSW
• Backed policies that cut billions in student debt
• Fought for better wages for childcare workers
• Helped increase the number of women in Parliament to a record high

They’re also leading the charge for:

• Stronger whistleblower protections
• Greater transparency over lobbyists
• Truth in political advertising

History backs this up. One of the most productive governments in recent Australian history—the Gillard Government—relied on a minority government supported by Independents and minor parties. Despite lacking a majority, it passed over 560 pieces of legislation, including major reforms in education, health, and climate policy. It proves what’s possible when Independents work constructively to get things done.

Independents get things done by holding governments accountable and negotiating real change—based on what matters to the people they represent. For Gilmore, that means having someone who will fight for your priorities—not toe a party line.

The major parties have stopped listening to communities like ours. While people are struggling with the cost of living, housing and access to services, they’re too busy playing politics. Kate is running to give our community a real voice—someone who will represent us, not a party. She’s backed by local people who want change and who believe we deserve better.

Kate is not a party politician but a community advocate with a proven track record of delivering real outcomes. She understands the pressures facing local families, having run a small business, raised a family, and led local organisations.

As President of the Berry Chamber of Commerce, she doubled membership post-COVID and led the village to win "Top Tourism Town" three years in a row. Her business was named Shoalhaven Small Business of the Year in 2024. Through roles on the National Trust and Shoalhaven Tourism Board, she has championed regional development and community resilience. Kate also led the $4.7 million 'Investing in Rural Community Futures' program, supporting over 120 grassroots organisations through bushfire recovery across Batemans Bay, Nowra, Bay and Basin, Ulladulla, and Kangaroo Valley. With a deep connection to the community, she is committed to practical solutions that put locals first.