ABOUT FRANK

Frank has brought to his role as an MLC an in-depth understanding of the issues facing South Australians, having worked in the media for over five decades as a national and state TV current affairs executive producer and investigative reporter, newspaper editor, print journalist and radio broadcaster.

Frank has maintained the reputation of a fearless crusader for the “underdog” and an advocate for social justice he earned in the media.

As a Member of the Legislative Council, Frank’s reputation for courageously driving change and tackling the hard issues has continued.

His track record over the past seven years speaks for itself and is testimony to his hard work, determination and commitment to the people he was elected to serve.

Crime

All South Australians have the right to feel safe as they go about their lives.

Being tough on crime also means being tough on the causes of crime.

Inadequate penalties not only insult victims and their families, they continue to put the community at risk.

The scourge of substance abuse – a major contributor to violence and theft – must be addressed as a priority.

Cyber Safety

Cyber bullying is a complex contemporary issue affecting our young people with devastating consequences for the victims and their families.

A strong legal framework is essential, but the law alone cannot effect the cultural change necessary to reduce the frequency and harm caused by modern methods of bullying behaviour.

Disabilities

People with disabilities should be treated with dignity and respect and be able to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

The continued rollout of the NDIS needs to be carefully evaluated to ensure it achieves the maximum benefit for its clients.

Respite for those families with a disabled family member needs to be given greater priority.

Education

Our vision is realising the full potential of education in Australia to propel all learners to be the best that they can be now and in the future so they can further their individual aims and assist in lifting Australia’s competitiveness and innovation.

I support transforming schooling to drive a new era of development and growth across the full range of expectations for 21st Century learning.

I support building upon the strengths of our schools and driving and amplifying leading edge research driven teaching in Australia.

Children should have the best start for learning through quality early childhood experiences that nurture and develop the whole child.

Energy

Climate change is real and poses a huge challenge for our environment and economic future.

This must involve a smart energy mix that provides affordable and reliable baseload power, and electricity grid stability.

It also involves making sure we have enough gas for domestic consumption, instead of the current situation where Australian gas is being sold overseas at half the price it is here.

Environment

Clean air, clean water and preserving our iconic natural resources are fundamental to guiding what we do for our environment – not just for us, but for Australia’s future generations.

Family violence

South Australian families should be free from incidents of violence. Police and family violence services must properly protect and support survivors.

Government procurement

Government procurement should not be about “price” alone.

It should also be about “value”.

Federal and state governments should consider the total economic benefit of all significant procurements to the local economy.

Officials need to assess and appreciate the value to the economy of local employment, local investment and local supply chain activity that flows from the procurement of products and services by governments.

Officials also need to consider quality when considering the value.

Health

High quality, easily accessible health care is a fundamental right for all South Australians.

With an ageing population and rising health costs that outstrip the CPI, there needs to be a new approach that focuses on preventative health care.

House affordability

A combination of local, state and federal government taxes and red tape have made housing less affordable, particularly for those trying to enter the housing market for the first time. This needs to be tackled head on.

Substance abuse and rehabilitation

With one of the highest levels of substance abuse in the world, we need a total revamp to ensure those with a problem can access help.

We must develop programs and an Australia wide culture that seeks to minimise addiction in the first place.

Mental health

Mental health is a significant issue affecting tens of thousands of South Australians – and millions of Australians.

Early intervention can reduce the impact of mental illness in the community and help people receive appropriate treatment and support to recover.

Government must place a greater emphasis on programs and strategies to address mental health.

Gambling

Targeted gambling reform is urgently required.

Australia has the world’s highest per capita gambling losses and level of problem gambling.

Our governments are totally out-of-touch with the overwhelming community desire to rein in the damage caused.

Small business

As Australia's largest employing sector, small business makes a significant contribution to Australia’s and South Australia’s economy.

All Australians should be encouraged to develop their own niche and/or nurture and grow their own enterprises.

Government plays an integral role in fostering small business growth and in doing so reduce bureaucratic obstacles.

My Policies

HON. FRANK PANGALLO