Member for Kalgoorlie Ali Kent wants more time in seat to continue her work improving livability in region

Priding herself on being able to give equal attention to both big and small issues in the community, Kalgoorlie MLA Ali Kent is hoping to secure another term in the seat. Running for re-election in the upcoming State election, Ms Kent said she hoped to continue building on the work she had been doing for the Goldfields region in the past 3.5 years. Whether it was a major infrastructure upgrade or simple improvements to tennis court nets, Ms Kent said she was proud of what she had achieved, and even more proud of what more she could do. “This is not just a job, it’s a part of who I am,” she said. “I’m proud of what I’ve achieved … but there’s always more things to be done. “I feel like I’ve worked really hard for the community, I’m out talking to stakeholders, community groups, sporting groups and businesses every day. “And I know I can hang my hat on a number of different things that I know would not have happened if I was not in the electoral seat. “It’s honestly the best job I have ever had and I appreciate and understand the privilege of holding the position, and I certainly don’t take it for granted.” While she did not want to give too much away about what she had planned for future projects, Ms Kent said her key focal points were on health – mental health in particular – sporting facility upgrades, improved street lighting and the development of a mountain bike track. “I’m really looking forward to sharing my plans with everybody for the next four years,” she said. “All the local governments have given me their wish lists … and I’m working with the (State) Government to see what we can bring from that. “People can be assured I am doing everything I can. The premier and the ministers are always listening, they know what I am working on. “I’ve got their support … and that’s been evident by the revolving doors really that have been happening with ministers coming to Kalgoorlie-Boulder, and that’s not going to change. “They understand the issues in the Goldfields and know that I’m going to take those issues to them when they crop up.” If re-elected, Ms Kent said she would continue to give as much energy to smaller community projects and events as she did to those with multimillion-dollar price tags. “I am focused on the long term and working hard to make a difference,” she said. “It’s not just about the hot topics, it’s about helping in all areas of the community. “You can’t fix all of the problems all the time, and there’s a lot of challenges … but the livability of this community is really important.” Throughout her time in the Kalgoorlie seat, Ms Kent managed to tick off a number of projects from her wish list, but she was not ready to let go of the seat until more was done. With her support, the State Government has supported various projects including $6.2m for an MRI machine, $6.8m for basketball stadium upgrades, $4.2m towards the youth precinct upgrade and $1.8m for family domestic violence accommodation in Leonora. Her time in the role has also seen the development of the regional capped airfares, CCTV improvements, upgrades to the Kalgoorlie Fire Station and the return of a blood bank to the region, which she says is “very close”. Outside of projects and dollar figures, Ms Kent said she hoped her biggest impact on the community was being able to provide an avenue for residents to feel heard. “It doesn’t matter what event I’m at or whether I’m just fuelling up my car, people always approach me and share their thoughts or concerns with me, and I’m proud of that,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what the issue is, whether it’s State Government or not, I can point them in the right direction or take it to the minister’s office, and that’s important. “I’m here doing my best and working as hard as I can and I hope that people feel if they have an issue, they can come to me … and I will try my darndest to help them.” She said some of her proudest achievements as the elected member flew relatively under the radar and came about from someone approaching her with concerns. From supporting the local tennis club with upgrades to nets, or helping small community groups host events, Ms Kent said it was those projects which often stood out most to her. And it was those smaller groups and events which she poured money into from her own electoral allowance — often used for promotional materials or newsletters — something she said she would continue to do if elected. Whether it’s a big project or a small project, Ms Kent said it all helped improve the livability of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, and that was a job she was not ready to let go of. With power outages being a hot topic in Kalgoorlie-Boulder of late, Ms Kent assured the community she would continue to push for promised upgrades to be completed to ensure more stability in the future. “I’ll continue to push for it, of course, I mean, I live here and when it’s 42 degrees and the power goes out, it’s annoying for everyone,” she said. “Nobody wants power outages . . . but they aren’t an easy fix. “But we have short, medium and long-term things in place for that going forward.”