Leon Ankersmit has been pre-selected as the ALP candidate for the seat of Clarence at the March 2023 State Election.

A passionate advocate for rural and regional communities, Mr Ankersmit is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Anglicare North Coast, and with a PhD in social work, has extensive experience in supporting families throughout the Northern Rivers region. 

“In recent years we’ve had drought, the Black Summer bushfires of 2019, multiple floods, and a massive squeeze on our cost of living, including housing affordability,” he said.

“Our people are struggling to bounce back from these things and get on with their lives.

“On top of that, it’s getting harder to access medical support and many essential services such as schools, health, aged care, and NDIS providers, are crying out for staff.

“It’s hard not to feel like we are going backwards in some respects, and the Clarence and Richmond valleys deserve better than that.”

Mr Ankersmit said a change of government in 2023 is “a very real possibility” in NSW, adding he will be a strong voice for the Clarence Electorate in a Labor Government.

Mr Ankersmit and his wife Toni live in Maclean with their three children.

The Clarence Valley Independent will officially introduce Mr Ankersmit to our readers during a formal interview in an upcoming edition.