EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid says he remains a strong advocate for the Central Coast as he enters his second term in Canberra.
Following Labor’s landslide win in May, the Party now holds its largest majority since World War II.
The result has also reshaped life for backbenchers such as Reid.
One sign of change is the seating in the House of Representatives.
Television cameras now pick up a fresh row of new Labor MPs seated directly behind the frontbench, while longer-serving members like Reid have been moved further around the chamber’s horseshoe.
“Roles have changed somewhat,” Reid told Coast Community News and the Community Radio Network.
He now serves on the Intelligence and Security Committee, as well as the Health, Aged Care and Disability Committee.
Outside parliament, he continues to volunteer as an honorary medical officer in Wyong Hospital’s emergency department.
“Nothing bursts the Canberra bubble quite like a NSW emergency department,” he said.
“You really see what’s happening on the frontline, which helps inform policy at the highest level of government.”
At 31, Reid is one of the younger MPs in the Labor caucus and believes that is shifting the conversation.
“Housing, healthcare, access to secure work — these issues are getting more traction because young people are bringing them to the table,” he said.
Labor’s strong majority has given backbenchers greater freedom to speak out.
Western Sydney MP Ed Husic, for instance, has publicly called for stronger recognition of Palestine, a stance later adopted by the Prime Minister.
Whether Reid uses his position to push more firmly on Central Coast issues, healthcare, or Indigenous affairs remains to be seen.
But with a safe seat and growing experience, he now has more room to step forward.
Noah Secomb – Canberra Correspondent
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