Press Statement for the Launch of My Candidacy for Watson
- Date : 13/08/2024
- Media Embargo
My Journey to Represent Watson: A Commitment to Our Community
Good Morning, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Ziad Basyouny. Today, I am excited to announce my candidacy for the federal seat of Watson. As someone who has spent years serving this community as a physician and advocate, I am stepping forward to ensure that our voices are heard in Canberra. Watson is one of the most culturally diverse electorates in Australia. A significant percentage of the population is from non-English speaking backgrounds, with many residents having Middle Eastern, South Asian, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Pacific Islander ancestry.
My Story: A Life Dedicated to Service
I was born in Cairo, Egypt, into a family deeply committed to public service. My father, a high-ranking police officer, taught me the values of integrity and dedication, which have guided me throughout my life. After earning my medical degree in Egypt, I moved to Australia in 2004, eager to contribute to this country that I now proudly call home.
My medical journey began in rural Queensland, but it wasn’t long before I made my way to Bankstown, where I served the local community at Bankstown Hospital. When my daughter was diagnosed with autism, I made the difficult decision to transition from emergency medicine to general practice. This allowed me to provide the care she needed while continuing to serve my patients with the same level of dedication.
Western Sydney has been my home for nearly two decades. My wife and I are raising our four children here. This community is not just where I work; it’s where I live, where my children grow, and where my heart is.
My Vision for Watson: A Future We Can Build Together
I’m running for the seat of Watson because I believe our community deserves better. I’ve seen firsthand the challenges we face, whether it’s the rising cost of living, the housing crisis, the lack of future planning and delays in critical infrastructure projects like the upgrades to Canterbury Hospital and Bankstown Hospital, quality health services – and as a doctor who seeks to save lives, I want to make particular mention of the 40,000 lives killed in Gaza, Palestine.
For too long, Western Sydney has been overlooked. It’s time to change that. It is time for someone who can truly be a voice for the community and not be hamstrung by party politics
to step forward and serve the community of Watson. It is time for someone who truly understands what it means to be a minority to be their voice. I will fight for the infrastructure we need now, not years down the line. Our community deserves access to high-quality healthcare.
Housing affordability is another critical issue affecting residents of Watson. Nearly 40% of households in the Watson electorate are experiencing housing stress, with many spending over 30% of their income on rent. This is unacceptable. I seek to push for national planning guidelines that prioritise public and affordable housing.
Standing Up for Justice: My Commitment to Human Rights
One of the reasons for my decision to run is my commitment to justice. It’s time for Australia to stand on the right side of history. The ICJ has called the horrors we are seeing inflicted on Gaza by Israel a “Plausible genocide” and has issued arrest warrants against members of the Israeli authority. It is time to end our military ties with Israel. As your representative, I will not shy away from these conversations because our community deserves someone who will speak the truth. My candidacy is not a protest candidacy but rather about ongoing failures in the cost of living, housing, health, and infrastructure. Palestine was the nail in the coffin of Labor’s false promises. This is a long-term vision for real change.
A Proven Track Record of Leadership
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of serving on the boards of three schools. I’ve been actively involved in community initiatives, and I’ve seen the difference we can make when we come together. My work with AusRelief in Cambodia and my commitment to providing medical care to underserved communities have strengthened my resolve to continue serving, both at home and abroad.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I served as the Medical Director of the Western Sydney Local Health District’s response, and I’m proud to say that we achieved the lowest mortality rate in Australia. This experience taught me the importance of effective leadership and teamwork, skills I will bring to the role of your representative in Canberra.
Join Me in Building a Better Future for Watson
This campaign is about more than just me; it’s about us. It’s about ensuring that our community has a strong voice in Canberra, one that will fight for the issues that matter most to us: cost of living, housing, healthcare, and human rights.
I’m asking for your support because together, we can make Watson a better place for all of us. It’s time for change, and I’m ready to stand up for our community. Let’s work together to build the future we deserve.
Thank you for coming today.
