Labor candidate Liam Cowan was an apology while independent Suzanna Sheed, Nationals’ Kim O’Keeffe and Liberals’ Cheryl Hammer all answered questions from women in the audience.
There were multiple questions relating to language barriers and healthcare of women from diverse backgrounds, such as during pregnancy and in emergency care.
Frequently the discussion from candidates circled back to a lack of workforce and resources in the area, underpinned by liveability issues such as the housing and land shortage.
One woman who came to Australia on a state sponsorship said she and her husband regretted relocating due to being unable to find work and the years’ wait for permanent residency.
Another woman who works with new arrivals said they were often unable to secure housing in Shepparton and moved to Melbourne where they found it easier.
As well as the housing shortage, the woman said real estate agents asked for rental history which new arrivals were often unable to provide.
The flashpoint of the night came when Ms Sheed said the main reason she was running for re-election was because of the prediction that Labor would be returned to government.
“I totally agree Cheryl and Kim know this community, so do I, but I just don’t think they will be able to deliver if they are sitting on the back bench. I sit on a cross bench so I can deal with anyone,” she said.
Ms Hammer interjected and disagreed, saying it was only a prediction and the Coalition was “working really hard” to be in government.
The event was hosted by The Door Bells Migrant Women’s Network in partnership with The Ethnic Council and La Trobe University Shepparton.
The Door Bells president and City of Greater Shepparton councillor Seema Abdullah said the event was a first step in demystifying politics and politicians for women from migrant communities.
“It's sometimes not possible for all of them to have a voice and be visible and be represented,” Cr Abdullah said.
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