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Simon Kennedy - Cook
2024 Sydney Cook By-Election - Member Of Parliament Candidate - April, 13, 2024
Who is Simon Kennedy?
Simon Kennedy steps forward as the Liberal Candidate for the Cook electorate, grounded in a profound background of consulting, public service, and active community engagement. Raised on the principles of hard work and perseverance, Kennedy's journey from managing check-out queues to becoming a prominent figure in consulting encapsulates his dedication and resilience.
Academic and Early Career Achievements:
Kennedy's academic pursuit at UNSW, where he excelled in law and commerce, graduating with distinction in both fields, set the stage for his distinguished career. His initial professional steps were taken as a paralegal and within the mergers & acquisitions domain at Clayton Utz, showcasing his legal acumen and business insight.
Professional Evolution at McKinsey & Company:
Kennedy's significant career evolution unfolded at McKinsey & Company, where over 17 years, he rose from a business analyst to a partner. Notably, he co-founded the Australian Public Sector Practice in 2016, focusing on advising government leaders on pivotal issues such as economic recovery, energy transition, and enhancing the liveability and affordability of cities.
Global Advisory Impact:
Kennedy's advisory reach extended globally, including significant contributions to U.S. government leaders on post-Global Financial Crisis economic recovery and to various state governments on economic and transportation strategies.
This global perspective enriches his understanding of complex issues and solutions.
Community Service and Leadership:
Beyond consultancy, Kennedy has shown a steadfast commitment to community service, leading pro bono projects and serving on the Committee for Sydney and advisory boards for non-profits. This engagement highlights his passion for societal betterment and community development.
Family and Local Engagement:
Kennedy resides in Woolooware with his wife, Nila, and their children, where his passion for community is evident through his engagement with local businesses and families, particularly addressing the cost of living crisis.
Vision for Cook:
As the Liberal candidate, Kennedy brings his advisory expertise and community-focused approach to champion small businesses, provide economic relief for families, and promote sustainable growth within the Cook electorate. His strategy emphasizes clear communication with government leaders to ensure the community's needs are effectively addressed, underlining his commitment to service and impactful problem-solving.
What are Simon Kennedy's Political Values?
The Liberal National Party (LNP) of Queensland is a center-right political party formed from the amalgamation of the state divisions of the Liberal Party and the National Party on July 26, 2008. This merger was aimed at creating a unified conservative force in Queensland politics, striving to offer a credible alternative to the existing government and to restore trust in state and national governance.
Guiding Principles:
The Liberal National Party (LNP) of Queensland champions core principles such as the freedom of conscience, religion, expression, and association, viewing these as the bedrock of a just society. The LNP values the family unit as a societal cornerstone, advocates for fiscal responsibility to protect future generations, supports a smaller government to boost innovation, and commits to environmental protection and sustainability.
Policy Priorities:
The LNP's policies focus on strengthening Queensland's agricultural and tech sectors, especially in regional areas, and ensuring energy transitions are affordable. The party prioritizes supporting community organizations and enhancing public safety, particularly through youth justice reform.
Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of improving educational infrastructure and outcomes.
Support for Regional Queensland:
Recognizing the economic and social significance of regional areas, the LNP pledges to enhance services and job opportunities outside of metropolitan centers. The party emphasizes the development of infrastructure, health services, and transport links to bolster the prosperity of regional communities.
Housing and Infrastructure:
The LNP aims to improve housing affordability and supply, manage population growth effectively, and ensure the timely delivery of necessary infrastructure. This includes specific measures to increase land availability and streamline government processes to facilitate development.
Promoting Integrity and Efficiency:
The LNP commits to restoring integrity in governance and enhancing the efficiency of the public service. This involves strengthening the roles of the Integrity Commissioner and the Auditor-General, and ensuring a culture of transparent and accountable governance.
Economic Management:
Fiscal discipline and economic management are key areas of focus for the LNP, with policies aimed at reducing government waste, attracting investment, and providing relief from the cost of living pressures faced by Queenslanders. The Liberal National Party of Queensland positions itself as a party dedicated to effective governance, regional development, and economic stability.
By integrating the strengths of its precursor parties, the LNP seeks to address the diverse needs of Queenslanders and drive forward a prosperous future for the state under conservative leadership.
