Labor MP Cassandra Fernando has represented the seat of Holt in Victoria since 2022. As Labor seeks a second term in government, she makes the case for her party’s record and its promises to voters. In this episode of SBS Spice, she speaks to Suhayla Sharif about Labor’s plans to tackle the cost of living crisis, HECS debt, and the national housing shortage. Fernando, who migrated from Sri Lanka as a child, also discusses the role of representation in Australian politics and the challenges of connecting with an increasingly diverse electorate.

We are working to get 20% off student HECS debt. That’s a lot of money for a student.

Cassandra Fernando on Labor’s plans for HECS debt relief

Tap the audio player to hear Labor MP Cassandra Fernando on cost of living pressures, housing, HECS relief—and how Labor is making its case to voters this election. SBS Spice is your go-to for South Asian Australian culture, exploring what makes us tick — or ick.

This interview is part of SBS Spice’s coverage of the 2025 Australian federal election:

LISTEN TO

Rattan Virk: Contesting Battleground Greenway for the Liberal Party

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29/04/202509:34

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LISTEN TO

From Labor to Australia’s Voice: Fatima Payman's Political Reset

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22/04/202525:05

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LISTEN TO

Politics, Power and Pushback with Mehreen Faruqi

SBS Audio

05/03/202526:38

Play

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