The Indi Way
The guiding principles of The Indi Way of doing politics owe their origins to:
- the values and purpose guiding Voices for Indi since its inception in 2012,
- the 2013 Voice for Indi report of the electorate-wide Kitchen Table Conversations, and
- the leadership of Cathy McGowan MP in establishing a culture of respectful and participatory political practice.
The Indi Way: is a commitment by the Member for Indi and by constituents that:
Is Engaged and Inclusive:
recognises power within communities and affirms that participatory democracy requires government and communities to work collaboratively for the common good.
hears all voices in seeking different perspectives as accountability and effective communication is underpinned by a respectful relationship between community members and their political representatives.
values diversity and welcomes progressive ideas, harnessing the energy and ideas of young and old, well-off and not-so-well-off, new and established residents, and is focused on solutions and the future.
nurtures the involvement of young people in political debate and active participation in our democracy.
recognises the traditional owners of the land and actively supports reconciliation and strong vibrant Aboriginal cultures.
creates safe spaces to discuss politics recognising that collaboration, compromise and creative thinking is fostered by using inclusive, respectful processes that can also be novel and fun.
Values People and Good Practice above political parties
requires ‘being your best self’ as a representative or a constituent by engaging respectfully, transparently and in a way that invites others to participate.
leads rather than follows by telling our story, celebrating our successes, and showcasing innovation.
creates the politicians we want to have by identifying, supporting, and training people from our community to come forward as candidates implementing The Indi Way at elections.
provides for long-term vision beyond election cycles that is adopted by successive representatives as it is reviewed and updated over time as communities develop.
puts people before parties with the current needs and long-term future of the electorate coming before party politics.
means working effectively with the government of the day, accepting that in a democracy majority forms government; thus, we seek to work with Government and to influence Opposition policy for the benefit of Indi communities.
adheres to these principles in conducting the business of parliament and interacting within the political system for the benefit of Indi.