Prof. Cr. George Razay

Working Together for a Happy, Healthy and Active Community

Promoting a Happy, Healthy and Active Community 

Launceston and the North East have one the highest rates in Australia of chronic health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes and the worst cardiovascular risk factors like obesity and hypertension. People eat food that is high in salt with fewer vegetables and fruits, drink more sugar-sweetened and diet drinks and are less physically active. I have been working with the council to advance our vision to promote healthy living and lifestyles through education and public awareness initiatives linked to sporting, recreation and exercise programs and creating healthy food environments.

Supporting Young Generation 

Until the eighties, young Australians could study at universities without fees, did not have to stress about finding a secure job, and could afford to buy a home. Nowadays, they leave university with massive debts, struggle to find a job, and cannot even dream of buying a house, it’s no wonder they are facing an epidemic of mental health disorders. We need to give young Tasmanians support, encouragement, and motivation in facing life challenges.

Combating Air Pollution and Traffic Congestion 

Transport is a major contributor to air pollution and Tasmania’s love affair with cars is growing, with a 79% increase since 2010. All of these are contributing to increased traffic congestion and air pollution, which is contributing to the rise in asthma and chronic lung diseases. The best and healthiest option is to encourage people to walk, cycle and use public transport, which is the best way to take more cars off the road. However, we need to make public transport more efficient, reliable and cheaper than using cars to encourage more people to use it.

Supporting People Experiencing Homelessness

This has been a growing problem for the last few years, especially with the increased cost of living and worsening housing affordability. I have been supportive of the council taking a more active role in working with people experiencing homelessness and coordinating with people and voluntary organisations that are already making a valuable contribution to meeting the needs of homeless people and giving them support and encouragement.

Improving the Tamar (Kanamaluka) River 

There is great concern about the deposition of mud and sewage discharge with high environmental and public health risks. It is a priority for the all governments to continue the good work in improving the sewer system and water quality to maintain a healthy river. We should also consider extending pedestrian and cycling tracks along both sides of the river, as well as having parks for recreational activities and an outdoor gym.

Promoting Respect for our Seniors 

We have many seniors who are full of wisdom and knowledge and do a lot of voluntary work.

The council needs to harness and value our Seniors and provide them with opportunities to embark on new adventures to serve the community.

Why Federal Member for Bass?

I have worked as a Physician and Geriatricians at the Launceston General Hospital for more than 28 years and Councillor at the City of Launceston for 2 ½ years. Working here has been a great privilege, contributed to my life experiences and given me the greatest joy because it emphasises serving the community and helping others. It also gave me the opportunity to meet many people and gave me a better understanding of the people and now I am thinking about how I can give something back to the community. I feel that I can use the knowledge and experience that I have gained over the years to serve the community in a different capacity. Being the Federal Member for Bass will give me that opportunity.

Every new era has changes and challenges. I can assist in capitalising on major opportunities and work with the Federal Government to develop and build on the good work that has already been done to benefit the community. I will also champion positive engagement and collaboration with the government and address future challenges facing Tasmanians and advance our vision for a healthier, happier and active community.

Professor Councillor George Razay