Julia Gillard (left), Deputy Opposition Leader and Shadow Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations and Social Inclusion discusses concerns with ALP Candidate for Forde, Brett Raguse

In key discussions with Julia Gillard, Deputy Opposition Leader and Shadow Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations and Social Inclusion, who visited Queensland this week, Mr Raguse emphasised the need to give the voters of Forde confidence that a Labor government led by Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard would ensure workers are protected by changing the unfair laws introduced by the Howard government.

“These are worrying times for young families with not only the uncertainty and the security of their jobs through the cruel ‘Work Choices’ legislation but the increasing costs of housing and diminishing affordability for potential first home owners.

“The overriding concern for everyone is the security of an income whether in business themselves or working for someone, there must be balance between workers rights and security of employment and business success.

“We must ensure that businesses both large and small have access to a stable well trained workforce – one that provides security to both the worker and the employer – something that current laws just don’t give.

“I have also received calls from residents of all ages who are worried about other issues like transport; dental services; Medicare; housing affordability; effect of changes of pensions - just to name a few. It really is time now for a change of government to get things back on track, Mr Raguse said.

Ms Gillard said she will be returning to the Forde electorate later in the year to further discuss growing voter concerns in all areas of current government policy.

Brett Raguse has been endorsed as the ALP candidate for the Federal Seat of Forde for the next federal election due to be held sometime within the next twelve months.

Mr Raguse has a business background in education, media, and experience in government and town planning and has been a resident of the area for over 23 years. He is currently Policy Adviser to the Minister for State Development, Employment and Industrial Relations, John Mickel.

“The seat of Forde covers large areas of rural, semi-rural, urban and national park and includes the Beaudesert Shire, Northern Gold Coast areas of Yatala, Beenleigh, Eagleby and parts of Logan through Waterford and Slacks Creek.

“The member for this seat must understand the complex issues which will determine its future, especially in regard to job security, the cost of living and the social infrastructure.

“Not only do we have to plan for population growth, with its associated pressures, but we also have to protect the lifestyles and amenity of existing residents.

“My vision for this area is to provide more jobs; better transport services, and greater opportunities for our youth, while working towards developing better facilities for our elderly and those with disabilities.

“We need more education and skills based training facilities to attract and supplement business and industry development in the area, and promote better community services for all our residents.

“These things can be achieved by a member who has community knowledge, and the vision and drive to successfully work with local, state, and federal governments in a constructive partnership.

“If elected I will focus on good representation for the residents, working to ensure that their concerns are heard in Canberra.”

Mr Raguse will be door knocking, and attending local markets and community functions around the electorate over the coming months. He can be contacted via email at .