Kate Dezarnaulds has launched her campaign as an independent candidate for the federal seat of Gilmore, bringing decades of leadership, deep local engagement, and a proven track record in small business, community development, and regional advocacy.
Known for speaking truth to power and her unbridled optimism, offering bold, practical representation to tackle the region’s most pressing challenges. From affordable housing and healthcare to creating opportunities through the energy transition, Kate’s campaign is focused on building stronger, more connected communities and delivering the independent leadership Gilmore deserves.
“Gilmore is my home. It’s where I’ve raised my children, built a business, and invested in the people and places that make this region so special,” Kate said at her candidacy announcement. “I’ve been here through the fires and the floods and seen the magic that happens when our community comes together. But I cannot stand by and suffer the division, distraction, and denial that is driving our broken political system. This community deserves leadership that listens, acts with integrity, and seizes the opportunities of innovation and progress to build a better future—not leadership driven by party agendas.”
“We need bold, practical action on climate change to safeguard our community and future generations. I’ll fight for investment in renewables and a just transition to clean energy that benefits everyday people, not multinational corporations”, continued Kate.
Kate’s Priorities for Gilmore:
- Affordable Housing and Healthcare: Addressing the housing crisis by advocating for federal investment in affordable housing and healthcare services, attracting and retaining key workers and professionals, and ensuring equitable access for all.
- Powering the Future: Leveraging the energy transition to create local jobs, reduce costs, and build a sustainable regional economy.
- Community Resilience: Strengthening disaster preparedness and supporting local programs that foster connected, resilient communities.
- Honest Leadership: Rebuilding trust through transparent representation and prioritising community voices over party politics.
Detailed policy statements will be shared during the campaign, outlining Kate’s key priorities.
Kate brings a deep connection to Gilmore as a long-time resident, married to a local builder, and a mother raising three teenagers in the region. Her strong roots in the community give her a clear understanding of the pressures families face and the meaningful solutions needed to address them.
As a business leader with decades of experience and over 13 years driving growth and resilience in Gilmore, Kate has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to her community. As President of the Berry Chamber of Commerce, she doubled its membership post-COVID and secured “Top Tourism Town” awards for three consecutive years. Her passion for fostering economic opportunity is matched by her dedication to building strong, connected communities. Despite the challenges of COVID lockdowns and rampant inflation, Kate’s business not only survived but thrived, earning the title of Shoalhaven Small Business of the Year in 2024.
Kate’s influence extends across the region, where she has delivered transformative projects like The Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s $4.7 million ‘Investing in Rural Community Futures’ program, supporting grassroots organisations in bushfire recovery in Batemans Bay, Nowra, Bay and Basin, Ulluadulla and Kangaroo Valley. As Head of Partnerships for StartupAus, she championed Australia’s entrepreneurs and startups, and her leadership spans numerous boards, including the National Trust and Shoalhaven Tourism Board, demonstrating her dedication to Gilmore’s future.
“Thriving communities are built on collaboration, opportunity, and resilience,” Kate said. “From supporting small businesses to empowering grassroots organisations, I’ve always worked to ensure that local voices shape local solutions.”
“Gilmore doesn’t need career politicians,” Kate said. “It needs someone who’s lived the challenges of this community and is ready to fight for its future.”
To learn more about Kate’s vision for Gilmore or to join the campaign, visit https://kateforgilmore.nationbuilder.com/
