MONASH candidates have been quick to support women.

AS A woman, a mother of three children including two daughters, and a registered nurse who has worked closely with women’s health I am acutely aware of the challenges that many women in our community face.

My personal experience with chronic pain due to multiple disc bulges from years of working as a nurse, has given me a first-hand understanding of the difficulties that many women deal with when it comes to their health particularly when their pain is dismissed or not properly addressed.

Living with chronic pain has taught me just how important it is to advocate for better pain management and a more responsive healthcare system.

I understand the frustration many women feel when their health concerns are minimised or misunderstood, and this is something I am passionate about changing.

Women deserve to be taken seriously when it comes to their health, and I will work to ensure that more research is done into women’s specific health issues and that our healthcare system listens and responds more effectively to their needs.

The issue of family violence is another area that I am deeply committed to especially because of my cultural background where this is an ongoing and significant problem.

As someone who has supported many women in my community who have been victims of domestic violence, I know how devastating this issue can be.

It’s imperative that we not only offer more support for victims but also put measures in place to prevent violence in the first place, every woman deserves to feel safe in her own home and community and I will advocate for policies that provide real solutions to address family violence.

Women’s mental health is another critical area that requires immediate attention.

As a nurse and someone who has worked closely with women I know that mental health challenges often go hand in hand with physical health issues yet there is a significant gap in support, especially in regional areas like Monash.

I am committed to ensuring that mental health services are available and accessible to all women who need them whether they are dealing with the aftermath of family violence, chronic pain, or other life challenges.

Education particularly the way girls are supported in schools is another area that needs reform.

Girls should be empowered to be confident, independent and assertive, not taught to be apologetic or subservient.

We need to ensure that girls have the same opportunities as boys to succeed and thrive, and that includes addressing bullying and creating safe spaces where they can flourish.

Finally, housing affordability is an ongoing issue for many women, particularly single mothers and young women entering the workforce.

Affordable housing should not be a luxury, it is a basic necessity for all women, and I will work towards policies that make housing more accessible to those who need it most.

As a candidate for One Nation, I am committed to putting the needs of women in Monash first especially when it comes to health, safety, and empowerment.

Kuljeet Kaur Robinson (One Nation)