Elect Me! Marion Scrymgour — Labor candidate for Lingiari, NT

‘Put compassion back into politics’: Marion Scrymgour — Labor candidate for Lingiari, NT

In Crikey’s Elect Me series, we ask candidates across the breadth of the political spectrum for their answers to the same key questions. Today, Marion Scrymgour.

If you could change just one thing about Australia, what would it be?

It’s hard to pick just one thing. There are a number of things that we need to change. I want to be able to put the compassion back into politics, especially when we talk about important issues like Indigenous affairs and immigration.

What is the worst thing anyone has ever said to you?

I’ve encountered racism like everyone else, but the worst was when someone said, “You’re the wrong colour.”

What is the best thing that has ever happened to you?

I’ve been fortunate to have been chosen to do a number of important jobs, like being elected to the Northern Territory Parliament and being the first woman to lead the Aboriginal Land Council.

Who or what do you see as the biggest threat to Australia?

Climate deniers, especially the Morrison-Joyce government and Clive Palmer.

Which historical figure do you most admire and why?

I’ve always admired Charles Perkins.

What would your final meal be?

Home-made curry chicken and rice (I make a mean curry chicken).

About the Author

Josefine Ganko

Reporter @JGanko

Josefine is a general reporter with a particular interest in public policy, law reform and sometimes sport. Josefine started at Crikey while completing degrees in law and public policy at the ANU, where she was an editor at Woroni.