Thousands of young voters were drawn to an independent MP’s election campaign launch on Saturday, where pop music met grassroots politics in a vibrant effort to galvanise youth participation in Australia’s democratic process.
Former GP and elite athlete Sophie Scamps, now the independent MP for the northern Sydney seat of Mackellar, launched her re-election campaign with Election Beats 2025, a live music and community engagement event held at Mona Vale Village Park.
Teal Wave Momentum
Scamps, one of the key figures in the 2022 teal wave that saw a cohort of independents win once-safe Liberal seats, is fighting to retain Mackellar in what promises to be a hotly contested race. Her margin sits at 3.3 per cent, and the seat is being targeted by Liberal candidate James Brown.
Despite the political stakes, the event had a festive, festival-like atmosphere. Local families picnicked on the grass as young people danced near the stage, turning the park into a celebration of civic engagement.
Music Meets Message
ARIA award-winning indie-pop group Lime Cordiale drew one of the biggest cheers of the night, performing a setlist that included fan favourites and new material with an underlying call for action. They were joined by energetic sets from Le Shiv, BabyFever, Ah Honey and local DJ Jaquel.
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Lead singer Oli Leimbach paused between songs to stress the importance of political participation among younger Australians. “We’re not just here to play music,” he told the crowd. “We’re here to get you thinking about your future. That means voting, that means action – and Sophie gets that.”
The message was clear: voting isn’t just a right, it’s a tool for shaping the future. The band encouraged attendees to enrol before the fast-approaching April 7 deadline.
Youth Focused Campaigning
During her keynote address, Dr Scamps acknowledged the growing frustration among young people with politics-as-usual.
“Millennials and Gen Zs will make up 40 per cent of the electorate this year,” she said. “They are not apathetic. They are energised and demanding real action on the issues that matter: climate change, housing affordability, student debt, and mental health support.”
Scamps criticised major parties for failing to connect with younger Australians, arguing that their perspectives are too often dismissed in favour of big business and entrenched interests.
“Young people are not being heard in Canberra,” she said. “It’s time to bring their voices to the table. If we want a future that is fair, sustainable and inclusive, we need to design it together.”
Beyond Politics: Building Community
The event also hosted food trucks, environmental advocacy stalls, and interactive installations showcasing climate solutions and local youth initiatives. Volunteers from various community groups offered information about local issues and voter registration.
Parents attending with their children praised the unique format of the launch. “It’s great to see a politician actually meeting people where they are – enjoying music, learning something, and feeling part of a bigger conversation,” said Mona Vale resident Jennifer Tran.
Tight Contest Ahead
With Mackellar expected to be a key battleground seat, Scamps’ mix of music and message is a bold strategy to drive engagement. The use of cultural touchstones to reach voters – especially those who may feel alienated from traditional political channels – highlights the evolution of modern campaigning.
Election Beats 2025 wasn’t just a political rally – it was an invitation to co-create the future, one beat and ballot at a time
