I’ve voted for the Coalition most of my life. I’ve always seen myself as a centre–right, common–sense voter, someone who believes in economic responsibility, social cohesion and competent government.
But for the first time, I feel politically homeless.
Both major parties seem more interested in internal fights and media grabs than in actually running the country. The Coalition in particular has drifted so far from its old values that many long–time supporters no longer recognise it.
What matters to voters in towns like Gunnedah is simple: economic discipline, integrity, social cohesion and a clear national identity. Instead, we get factional games, symbolic gestures and policies that feel disconnected from everyday life.
And here’s the part politicians never seem to grasp: when they ignore voters like me, they reinforce the very frustration that’s driving us away. Silence isn’t neutral, it’s part of the problem.
If the Coalition wants to win back people like me, it needs to rediscover competence, discipline and the values it once stood for. Until then, I’ll be voting with my feet.
Craig Kolstad
Gunnedah
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