Meet Luke Foley

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Luke Foley, brand new Leader of the NSW Labour Party was introduced to the multicultural press of New South Wales by Shadow Minister for Citizenship and Communities Guy Zangari.

Luke Foley Photo: Henry Benjamin

Touching first on his recent disclosure of drink driving charges, incurred several years ago, Foley admits to being ashamed of his actions. He told the press conference that he hopes that if his disclosure prevents just one person from drinking and then getting behind the wheel of a car, it would be a good thing.

Foley’s sees NSW as “the great economic powerhouse of Australia and the nation’s social conscience” and believes that it is possible to be both.

The rights of working people are still central to the Labour Party’s values but he also wants to offer broader platforms. These include support for the arts and to bring economic, social and environmental agendas to the fore.

Discussing cuts to public education funding, he is concerned that cuts to ESL programs will mean children from non-English speaking backgrounds will not get extra help with English language skills.

While firmly believing in Labour’s basic tenet of a “Fair go for all and a helping hand to those who need it most”, he regards himself as a progressive and will not be “boxed in” by ideologies but will concentrate on what gets the job done.

When J-Wire asked if he had had any contact with previous Labour leaders, Foley said he was on good terms with all Labour leaders and that he had much to learn from them.

Citing Parramatta as a model, Foley’s long term vision is to create jobs away from the CBD by revitalising the towns of Penrith, Liverpool and Campbelltown.

In contemplating the short lead time to the next election, Foley said he is excited about the challenge and will “relish the opportunity” to meet many of the state’s diverse communities.