Fatima Payman (WA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

It was great to hear directly from hardworking, straight-talking people of Western Australia at the community forum I held in Leederville on Saturday. They didn't hold back, and neither will I. They brought up some serious concerns. And guess what? They think the Albanese Labor government is still snoozing on the job.

Let's start with the cost of living. We're all feeling the pinch. Grocery prices are through the roof, let alone budgeting for energy bills, rent and mortgages. While the government are still busy patting themselves on the back for their so-called relief measures, families are left wondering how they'll afford next week's grocery bill.

Then there's the issue of strata fees. I've heard so many West Aussies complain about the astronomical costs. Strata fees are supposed to cover maintenance, but, when they start resembling a second mortgage, something's seriously wrong.

And don't get me started on the healthcare crisis. I mean, finding a bulk-billing GP these days is like searching for a unicorn. And, if you do manage to find one, they're booked solid for weeks.

Let's talk about the HECS loans. You'd think by now they'd have figured out that saddling young Australians with decades of debt is not the way to secure a strong future for our country. But, no, HECS debts continue to grow, with interest ticking away, impacting the mental health of students and graduates who are just trying to get ahead in life.

Finally, there's immigration. Whether it's reuniting families and granting permanent residency or seeking skilled workers, we need urgent reforms to fix this broken system. But what do we get? More red tape, more delays and more excuses.

This government is quick to talk but slow to act. And let me remind them WA is watching. We're tired of being ignored, tired of empty promises and tired of waiting.