It was a privilege to talk with Premier Chris Minns earlier this month ahead of the 13 September by-election.

I used the opportunity to highlight the importance of strong local representation and to press the case for urgent investment in the priorities Council has identified through our Advocacy List.

For too long, Kiama has missed out on the government support that neighbouring communities have received, with projects such as the Mount Ousley interchange, Shellharbour Hospital and Shoalhaven Hospital upgrades bypassing our area.

That must change.

Council has set out a clear list of priorities:

• Redevelopment of Kiama Sports Complex and Leisure Centre into a Regionally Significant Sporting Facility (estimated at $110–$150 million).

• A structure plan for the Kiama Urban Expansion Area, ensuring proper roads, stormwater, sewerage and services.

• Urgent investment in Bombo Treatment Plant, which is nearing capacity and creating odour and overflow issues.

• Lifting the outdated covenant on residential land near Spring Creek.

• Fairer arrangements for Jamberoo Mountain Road, a regional link that should not be funded solely by local ratepayers.

Council has shown progress is possible. We secured movement on Glenbrook Drive and continue to advocate with the Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation for better access to the new Shellharbour Hospital. But many pressing needs remain unmet.

The recent announcement of 100 new preschools, with none for Kiama, underlines how far we are still being left behind.

These are not wish lists.

They are essentials.

Every delay costs our community whether in sport and recreation, in housing, in education, in health or in basic infrastructure.

Council has done the work to identify what is needed. I call on all candidates in this by-election to commit to these priorities.

They reflect the voice of our community and the determination of your Council. We are ready and willing to partner with state and federal governments.

Together, with the right support, we can secure the investment Kiama needs and deserves for the future.