Sudden and shocking, Pittwater sees themselves without a state member.
Former Independent candidate in the 2023 State Election, Jacqui Scruby, is running to be the representative for Pittwater a second time.
‘I’ve just been really humbled about how many people have come out to show their support,’ says Independent Jacqui Scruby. ‘That is a testament to Pittwater being ready for change. They deserve better given recent and past events.’
Last election, Rory Amon received 50.7% of the preference count votes, which elected him as the Pittwater Member. Jacqui Scruby, however, secured 49.3% of the preference votes, massively swinging the seat 21.7% away from the claws of the Liberals.
‘We are going to have a minority Labor government,’ explains Jacqui. ‘The minority means the independents have influence on a crossbench and the ability to get action and to hold that government to account. An independent is in a stronger position to do that.’
Jacqui Scruby is a local mother, environmental lawyer, and owner of a small business. She was the campaign manager for both Sophie Scamps, in the federal seat of Mackellar, and Zali Steggall, in the federal seat of Warringah. During the last election, Jacqui drafted the original version of the legislation that stopped the drilling of oil and gas off the coast of the Northern Beaches, which was picked up by both major parties.
Pain points for Pittwater residents that Jacqui is focused on include advocating for the completion of Mona Vale Road, fighting for reduction in stamp duty on home insurance, and reducing energy bills.
‘You shouldn’t be putting stamp duties on things you want people to buy and retain, we need people to have home insurance… Parents must choose having to miss a day of work to get their kids to a sports carnival and back because there are no buses,’ says Jacqui. ‘The state government can provide better services. There are ways for the state government to help with the cost-of-living crisis without it being direct handouts.’
Jacqui Scruby will continue campaigning across Pittwater until the by-election on the 19th of October.
