The looming federal election has shone a light on issues in the electorate of Gilmore.

Liberal candidate Warren Mundine and Nationals candidate Katrina Hodgkinson say upgrades to the Princes Highway are needed. 

“Improving the Princes Highway has got to be the number one issue,” Ms Hodgkinson said.

Mr Mundine said the NSW South Coast community relies on the highway for prosperity and safety.

He said the recent federal government pledge to invest of $500 million in the road would be “ a boom for our local economy, improving freight routes and generating local construction jobs.”

Independent candidate Grant Schultz and Labor candidate Fiona Phillips say Princes Highway upgrades fall under the broader umbrella of investment into regional Australia.

Mr Schultz and Ms Phillips have prioritised stimulating the economy and creating more jobs.

Issue 1 – Princes Highway Upgrades

The Princes Highway was opened in 1920 and while there have been significant upgrades since, parts of the original highway have fallen into disrepair.  As public transport is limited in Gilmore, most residents rely on cars to get around. Additionally, the Princes Highway is renowned for traffic accidents and traffic jams.

Issue 2 – Creating Jobs

Unemployment, particularly youth unemployment, is a significant issue affecting the lives of many regional Australians, including Gilmore residents.  In September last year, the youth unemployment rate in the Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands was 10.1 per cent. This is a significant decrease on the year before, but is still higher than the national average.

Issue 3 – Mental Health

Mental health has also been identified as a pressing issue in regional areas. Young men in regional areas have particularly high rates of suicide – up to six times more likely in very remote areas than their urban counterparts. This is largely due to less access to services, social isolation and the stigma around mental health. A report by the National Rural Health Alliance shows the prevalence of psychiatrists, mental health nurses and psychologists decreases with remoteness.