The Goals Ex-LNP Senator Rennick Aims for as an Independent

Senator Gerard Rennick has left the Liberal National Party (LNP) and announced the launch of his “People First” party to compete in the next federal election.

Rennick, who lost his Senate ticket spot in the LNP to party Treasurer Stuart Fraser by a narrow margin of three votes, is now seeking official party status with the Australian Electoral Commission.

Rennick’s agenda focuses on transforming Australian family dynamics.

He aims to increase the tax-free threshold from $18,200 to $40,000, direct childcare support to families, eliminate subsidies for renewables, and halt construction on agricultural lands.

Additionally, he suggests making superannuation voluntary, reintroducing a public bank, and establishing a government insurance office under the banner of his fledgling party.

In an interview with The Epoch Times, Senator Rennick assured that these changes would result in more money in the pockets of individuals and families, facilitating quicker mortgage repayments and an overall financial boost.

The new “People First” party, according to him, is all about empowering individuals and families.

Not a Trend Follower

Regarding renewable energy, Senator Rennick believes that “People don’t want renewables cluttering up farmlands and waterways.”

“Creating a new party isn’t about following trends,” he stated. “It’s about securing a spot on the top of the ballot paper. This paves the way for both One Nation and my party to potentially win Senate seats.”

Despite launching his party at the same time as RFK’s Unity Party in the United States, Senator Rennick maintains that he is not directly influenced by American politics.

However, there seems to be a trend in the opposition focusing on families and children, with RFK’s campaign aiming to improve American child health.

Future Goals

Senator Rennick aims to hold the balance of power to advance his agenda. While he acknowledges that gaining support from the Greens and Labor is a challenge, he remains positive about the potential for bipartisan cooperation.

He also advocates for increased transparency and accountability in government, calling for the mandatory disclosure of documents during estimates to prevent delays in responding to information requests.

Starting a new party comes with its challenges, according to Senator Rennick, including extensive paperwork and the need for a significant number of signatures.

Fortunately, as a current MP, he is exempt from the 1,500-signature requirement for non-sitting candidates. Currently, his focus is on expanding his party’s presence in Queensland, although he acknowledges that it is still early days.

There is stiff competition from other conservative candidates as well.

Regarding public banking and a government insurance office, Rennick expressed, “People are eager for face-to-face banking. There is strong support for it.”

Additionally, Rennick’s proposal to make superannuation voluntary represents a significant policy shift that aligns with a similar push from Senator Andrew Bragg.

“People are more focused on the present than retirement. In New Zealand, 92 percent of the population voted against mandatory superannuation in a referendum,” he added.

During his time in parliament, Rennick amassed a substantial social media following. Often called a “maverick senator,” Rennick rejects the label.

“I’m just doing my job,” he remarked. “Holding the government accountable is not maverick behavior; it’s a responsibility.”

As for the future of his new party, Rennick is cautious yet hopeful.

While it is premature to consider entering state politics, he leaves the possibility open, noting that the party’s trajectory will depend on the upcoming outcomes.