Robert Roylance promises to be ‘voice for everyday people’ in maiden speech
The new One Nation Member for Hammond has outlined his vision for the next four years in his maiden speech to South Australia’s parliament. Watch the video.
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New Member for Hammond Robert Roylance has promised to be a “voice for everyday people” in South Australia’s parliament.
Mr Roylance gave his maiden speech – an outline of his background and priorities – in the House of Assembly last Wednesday.
He described himself as an average Joe who was driven to bring meaningful change to his community.
“My objective is simple: to be a voice for everyday people, the underdog, the working class, the tradies, the mums and dads juggling a dozen things before sunrise, and those who too often feel unseen, unheard and who are keeping this state moving but not getting ahead,” he said.
“I am focused on fairness, practicality and respect for regional voices, ensuring decisions reflect local experience and deliver long-term outcomes.
“My priority is supporting policies that help people in Hammond live secure, productive lives; and ensuring regional South Australia remains central to our state’s future.”
He began his speech with an acknowledgement of the Australian Defence Force, and spoke about the role his Catholic faith had played in his life.
It was a faith he had discovered with the underground church in China, of all places, and one which had guided him throughout his rise into politics.
“I know I’m here because of (God’s) will,” he said.
He would finish his speech with a resounding “Viva Cristo Rey,” or “long live Christ the King”.
He thanked his wife Erika for her unwavering strength and support; One Nation Senator Pauline Hanson, who he described as brave, tenacious and inspirational; his party colleagues; and the voters who had supported him.
To those who voted for other candidates, he promised again to earn their trust.
“I commit to remaining open, honest and accountable,” he said.
“I am dedicated to building stronger communities, places where families can feel secure about their future and free to focus on what matters most: raising their children, pursuing their goals and enjoying the lives they have worked so hard to build.
“I look forward to serving … with love, sincerity, respect and integrity.”
- Read Mr Roylance’s speech in full: hansardsearch.parliament.sa.gov.au.
First question focuses on regional health care
Mr Roylance asked his first question in parliament the following day: about what the government was doing to retain doctors in rural SA.
Health Minister Blair Boyer said the key was training more doctors in the country, not just offering them extra money.
“They are the people who will go and fill the gaps in seats like Hammond, and they will stay there for life,” Mr Boyer said.
“They will make it their home and they will build a life for their family, and that is the long-term work that this government is focused on.”
