Wiig: ‘I am running solely to represent the people of Fairfax

Francine Wiig, the independent candidate for Fairfax, insists she is driven by her community, not by outside agendas. “I share similar values with other independents—such as integrity, community-driven policy, and action on issues like cost of living, housing, and climate—but I am running solely to represent the people of Fairfax and our community’s issues, not a political party or donor,” she said. “The term ‘teal’ is a media label, not a political party and is used by the major parties as a distraction from the real issues facing everyday Australians.”  

Ms Wiig said she would “work with all sides” in parliament. 

If it looked to be a minority government Ms Wiig said she would “work with all sides and vote for the best policy that benefits the people of Fairfax”.

Addressing concerns over funding and independence, Ms Wiig highlights Climate 200’s broad base: “Climate 200 is a fundraising organisation that supports independent political candidates committed to climate action, integrity, and gender equity. It is funded by over 14,000 grassroots donors and philanthropists who advocate for evidence-based policies and political transparency in Australia “While founder Simon Holmes à Court has played a key role, he has contributed only about two percent of the organisation’s total funds, with significant support coming from other investors.”

She criticised the major parties’ collusion on recent legislation she says has created barriers to independents in politics: “It’s a cynical move that protects major parties’ incumbency while making it harder for independents to challenge the status quo.”

Candidate for Fairfax, Francine Wiig “The term ‘teal’ is a media label, not a political party and is used by the major parties as a distraction from the real issues facing everyday Australians.”