Newly preselected Liberal candidate for the key marginal Seat of Paterson Laurence Antcliff said he was passionate about creating opportunities for young people in the Hunter.
Mr Antcliff, who is the Housing Industry Association Apprentice Operations Manager, visited businesses in Thornton and Rutherford on Wednesday with Deputy Coalition Leader Sussan Ley and Senator Maria Kovacic.
A resident of Chisholm, Mr Antcliff said he was committed to getting Paterson 'back on track'.
"Our local community needs someone who understands the cost-of-living challenges, from rising grocery and electricity prices to skyrocketing mortgages and high interest rates, and someone who can deliver positive results rather than just talk about them," he said.
Mr Antcliff said he understood the vital role industry played in the Hunter, where he created hundreds of jobs for apprentices, provided them with mentoring, and helped more than 250 small and medium-sized construction businesses in the Hunter region and beyond over the past decade.
"Too many young people are forced to move away from our beautiful area for jobs, education and career opportunities. I'm passionate about creating these opportunities right here," he said.
"That can only happen with a strong economy that supports businesses and invests in education and training opportunities."
He said his work had given him a first-hand insight into the difficulties young Australians faced in achieving their dream of buying a home.
"That's why I'm a strong advocate for the Liberals' Super Home Buyer Scheme, which will help first home buyers access their own money for a deposit, bringing the dream of home-ownership closer," Mr Antcliff said.
"With the support of my local community, I will work tirelessly to bring more jobs to our region and the investment in local roads, schools and hospitals we need to support families and households."
Polling published in the Australian Financial Review in August showed that if an election was held today the Coalition could win seats including Gilmore, on the NSW south coast, Paterson in the NSW, Lingiari in the NT and Lyons in Tasmania from Labor.
