Jugging act: Chifley MP Ed Husic, pictured with son Sam, 6 months and wife Bridget on Friday, admits juggling family time with election campaigning over the next seven months will be tough. Picture: Michael Szabath
CAMPAIGNING started for Chifley MP Ed Husic long before Prime Minister Julia Gillard declared September 14 as the federal election date.
"I haven't stopped since the day I was elected," he said.
"Getting out there and working hard is something I've always done through mobile offices, going to schools and speaking up for the electorate in Parliament."
He welcomed last week's surprise announcement to give voters time to decide.
"It's a good thing as people have a choice to weigh up what each candidate can do for the area and who has experience and commitment," Mr Husic told the Star.
"Having grown up in the area where I'm now raising my own family, I want to give back to the area that's been good to me.
"I want to improve service and infrastructure out here, whether it be an MRI for Mount Druitt Hospital, tackling graffiti vandalism and anti-social behaviour or making sure schools are well funded."
He predicts a tough campaign against Liberal candidate Isabelle White.
"Many people voted Liberal for the first time in their lives at the last election," he said.
"In the months ahead Mr Abbott should tell Australians what his plans are for the country and our area.
"It's time for the parties to put their cards and policies on the table."
Mr Husic says fatherhood has changed his perspective.
"I can identify with other parents at schools and can pick out the bleary-eyed new parents," he said.
"It gives me a better appreciation of what families go through."
Six-month-old Sam already shows signs of being a budding politician.
"He's definitely Mr Social," Mr Husic said.
"He's very chirpy and turns it on where he's out and about."