Article summary: Lisa Thornton has been confirmed as an independent candidate for the prized seat of Churchlands in Western Australia, set to challenge Liberal candidate Basil Zempilas and incumbent Labor MP Christine Tonkin. Thornton’s previous political experience includes serving as a City of Stirling councillor since 2019.
Thornton addressed her past political experience and her residence in the electorate. "I became frustrated with party politics," she explained, emphasising her commitment to community representation free from party influence. Responding to claims she does not live in the western suburbs electorate, she insisted she has lived in Doubleview for "several years" and dismissed contrary claims as "simply false." She clarified that her full address is suppressed on the electoral roll due to past personal safety concerns. "I love living in Churchlands, am registered to vote in Churchlands, and am committed to representing the people of Churchlands as a community independent," she affirmed.
The contest for Churchlands is expected to be intense. The seat, held on a slim 1.6% margin by Tonkin, was a surprise Labor gain in the 2021 election. It is now a high-stakes battleground, with Zempilas' candidacy further complicating matters. Premier Roger Cook ruled out meeting Zempilas, citing his Liberal candidacy and past decisions as Perth’s Lord Mayor. "He’s the person that shut down a women’s shelter, he opposes a new primary school, he’s trying to stop extra housing. I won’t be meeting with the mayor of the City of Perth," Cook declared.
Thornton’s campaign focuses on boosting community involvement in development and expanding social housing. "I believe you get the best outcomes in planning and development when you bring the community along with you," she stated. While yet to take a firm stance on a proposed 20-storey redevelopment of Floreat Forum, she promised to consult local residents before deciding. "We definitely need more medium-density development... but as far as high-rise goes, that should be up to the community," she said.