Arabic version: فوز واحدة من الأمة يثير القلق بين مجتمعات فارر

David Farley won the seat of Farrer for One Nation with a landslide victory in Saturday’s by-election, garnering almost 40 percent of the vote. This result has sparked concerns among Indigenous and migrant communities regarding potential increases in racism and division within the electorate. According to ABC News, local leaders are apprehensive about the implications of Farley’s win.

Braden Lyons, a Wiradjuri man and local councillor, expressed his disappointment, stating that many in the Narrandera community are fearful of the election outcome. He emphasized the need for the new member to engage with Indigenous and migrant communities to address their concerns and foster inclusivity.

Narinder Singh Sandu, representing Griffith’s Sikh community, noted that while some voters may have supported Farley for his expertise in water management, there remains a worry that immigration discussions could lead to discrimination against minorities. He urged voters to recognize the contributions of migrants to the local economy.

Carmel La Rocca, president of the Griffith Multicultural Council, highlighted the importance of Farley engaging with multicultural communities, as there was minimal interaction during the election campaign. She pointed out that migrant workers play a crucial role in the region’s agriculture and manufacturing sectors.

Farley has stated he is committed to an open-door policy for all constituents and recognizes the importance of addressing the under-servicing of immigration support in the area. He has acknowledged the vital role of Pacific Australia Labor Mobility (PALM) workers in Farrer and stressed the need for continued support and training for these workers.