Bonaros says regions overlooked by major parties during Riverland visit

SA-BEST MLC Connie Bonaros, one of the state’s hardest-working MPs who has been a key balance-of-power voice in the Legislative Council, said regional communities often struggle to cut through with the major parties.

“Too often the regions don’t get the attention they deserve because they simply don’t deliver the volume of votes that attract the focus of the major parties,” Ms Bonaros said.

“But communities like those in the Riverland are vital to South Australia’s economy and identity, and they deserve someone in Parliament who will stand up and fight for them.”

Ms Bonaros represents SA-BEST, the party founded by former senator Nick Xenophon, and said the party’s focus had always been on putting South Australians ahead of any political ideology.

“I’m not interested in left or right politics-every issue should be judged on its merits,” she said.

“That approach allows me to work with any side of politics to deliver real outcomes for South Australians.”

Ms Bonaros said supporting regional industries and local jobs would remain a priority, revealing she is preparing to release a policy aimed at boosting business activity outside metropolitan Adelaide.

“I will soon be announcing a policy to reduce payroll tax in regional South Australia to help businesses grow and create more jobs,” she said.

SA-BEST will be backing calls from the South Australian Business Chamber for a 50% reduction in Payroll Tax for regional businesses.

“Regional industries face unique pressures, and they deserve policies that recognise those challenges.”

She also raised concerns about the level of health services available in country communities, particularly access to mental health support.

“People living in regional South Australia should not receive a lower standard of healthcare simply because of where they live,” Ms Bonaros said.

“We need to do far better when it comes to regional health services —especially mental health.”

Ms Bonaros said listening to local communities was critical to ensuring Parliament understood the real challenges facing the regions.

“The Riverland has a proud and resilient community,” she said.

“My job is to make sure their voices are heard where it matters-in Parliament.”