Independents can deliver remarkable results for their communities, as proven by Helen Haines in Indi – another regional Victorian seat. She's secured funding for local schools, better telecommunications infrastructure, and millions for community facilities. Helen successfully championed the National Anti-Corruption Commission and housing policies, which both major parties have adopted. Independents work in genuine partnership with their communities, focusing entirely on local priorities rather than party politics. They can call out bad decisions regardless of who makes them and cut through partisan games to achieve practical outcomes.

Also, recent polls suggest an 80% chance of a minority government at the next election. That means neither major party has enough seats to form the government without the support of the "cross bench" MPs (the independents or minority party representatives). If this happens, Alex, as a cross-bench member, would be in a position of significant influence.  

For more information, take a look at this Fact Sheet.