2025 Federal Election Panel Discussion & Q&A Strengthens Political Engagement in the Chinese Community

Sydney, March 28, 2025 – The Chinese Australian Forum (CAF), in partnership with Chinese Herald, successfully hosted the 2025 Federal Election Panel Discussion & Q&A on the same day the Prime Minister officially called the federal election. The event drew enthusiastic interest, bringing together over 200 attendees, including young leaders, entrepreneurs, academics, and political figures.

As CAF’s signature pre-election event for decades, the panel discussion has served as a vital platform for the Chinese-Australian community to engage directly with political leaders. This year’s distinguished guests included Tanya Plibersek (Minister for the Environment and Water, Federal Labor MP for Sydney), Keith Wolahan (Federal Liberal MP for Menzies), David Shoebridge (NSW Greens Senator), and Zali Steggall OAM (Independent MP for Warringah). Each speaker outlined their party’s policies and vision, reaffirming their commitment to addressing key issues affecting Chinese-Australian voters.

Political Leaders Address Key Issues

Tanya Plibersek reflected on her experiences with China during her tenure as the spokesperson for Foreign Affairs, emphasizing the critical importance of fostering strong Australia-China relations. She provided an overview of recent developments in Australia-China relations, including the recovery of trade relations and diplomatic exchanges, and stressed that the Labor Party’s approach to Australia-China relations remains pragmatic and balanced—cooperating where possible, disagreeing where necessary, and always engaging in the national interest. This contrasted with the more confrontational stance of the Federal Opposition. She emphasized the Albanese government’s efforts to strengthen Australia-China ties through high-level dialogue, trade cooperation, and support for the Chinese Australian community, noting funding to the Museum of Chinese Australia. She expressed gratitude to the Chinese Australian community for their active involvement in public affairs and pledged continued

commitment to ensuring cultural respect, equal opportunities, and stronger community representation.

Keith Wolahan, who flew to NSW from Victoria’s Menzies—one of the constituencies with the highest populations of Chinese-Australians—commended the Chinese community for its outstanding contributions to education and entrepreneurship. He raised concerns over Australia’s economic challenges, warning about the escalating national debt, inflationary pressures, and declining living standards. He emphasized the Liberal Party’s commitment to reducing government intervention and fostering small business growth, calling for greater recognition of the Chinese community’s economic and social contributions. Wolahan also praised the historical breakthrough for the Liberal Party, with candidates of Chinese heritage, including Grange Chung and Stott Yung, running in this year’s election.

David Shoebridge addressed key cost-of-living issues, particularly in housing and healthcare, and advocated for including dental care in Medicare. He criticized tax policies that enable large corporations to avoid paying their fair share, calling for a fairer tax system to ensure adequate public services. AUKUS, one of the most heated topics of the night, saw Shoebridge strongly reiterate the Greens’ opposition to the nuclear submarine program, which costs up to 375 billion AUD, arguing it would involve Australia in unnecessary geopolitical conflicts. He also acknowledged the unfair treatment faced by Chinese-Australians during the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing challenges the community continues to face.

Zali Steggall, a former Winter Olympian and lawyer, called for a more equitable tax system and increased support for small businesses, women’s healthcare, and early childhood services. She reiterated her independent stance, explaining her commitment to community-driven policymaking over partisan politics. With the recent redistricting of Warringah, she welcomed the growing presence of Chinese-Australian constituents and emphasized the importance of political diversity beyond the traditional two-party system.

Emphasizing the Importance of Political Participation

CAF Chairman Simon Chan highlighted the crucial role of the Chinese community in shaping Australia's political future, urging voters to engage beyond election cycles and focus on long-term planning for a prosperous and inclusive nation.

Wendy Huang, Director of Chinese Herald and newly appointed board member of the National Foundation for Australia-China Relations, stressed on the importance of community voices and the critical role of independent media in fostering open, diverse discussions.

At the conclusion of the event, Vice President Tony Pang thanked attendees for their active participation, expressed appreciation for the speakers' valuable insights, and wished them success in the upcoming election. The success of the 2025 Federal Election Panel Discussion & Q&A reinforced the importance of direct engagement between political leaders and the Chinese community. CAF remains committed to empowering Chinese-Australian voices and ensuring their perspectives are heard at the highest levels of government.