Are you a member of a political party, political group, or community advocacy group? (eg; Labor, Liberal, Greens, Socialist, My Place, Angry Victorians, Better West, environment groups, etc)
Yes, I am a member of the Australian Labor Party and am honoured to serve as the current Mayor of Maribyrnong City Council.
I am deeply and actively involved in a range of community groups that focus on enhancing living conditions and advocating for the diverse needs of our community, including those of our CALD residents. This ensures that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed. As a Councillor for 11 years, including two terms as Mayor, I have strong community connections, which enable me to negotiate and advocate for the best outcomes for residents. I will always listen to the needs and concerns of Braybrook residents and serve them as well as possible.
What is the most important issue facing your electorate?
A crucial issue in Braybrook Ward is the need for social and affordable housing. I will continue to work to address this through strategic planning and collaboration with state agencies to ensure everyone in our community can access safe and affordable homes.
Should/how can Council support local businesses?
Council can bolster local businesses by simplifying regulations, providing targeted financial support, and enhancing commercial districts. Initiatives like local markets and business expos can also drive traffic and promote small enterprises, which are vital to our community’s economic health.
As a Councillor, I will continue to invite international businesses to trade in Maribyrnong and support the revitalisation of the CBD to make Maribyrnong theplace to be for businesses and their future customers.
Should/how can Council support local creatives and industries?
Council can nurture our local creatives by allocating grants, establishing collaborative workspaces and organising showcases highlighting our rich cultural tapestry in the CBD and across the municipality, including Braybrook Ward. Public art projects can be platforms for artistic expression and community engagement.
Should/how can Council help alleviate the impact of climate extremes on local communities and ecosystems?
To mitigate climate extremes, the Council must remain committed to adopting sustainable urban practices like enhancing green spaces and implementing the Draft Electric Vehicles Infrastructure Policy, both of which are initiatives implemented by Council during my time as Mayor. Education on sustainability practices is also crucial for preparing our community to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Should/how can Council help alleviate cost of living and homelessness?
Addressing homelessness and the high cost of living is a priority for me. I will continue to advocate for more affordable housing, support rental assistance programs, and ensure adequate social services to help those at risk of homelessness. Council’s strategies should be tailored to provide housing and a supportive community network.
What should Council stop spending money on?
Council needs to evaluate ongoing projects and redirect funds from underperforming initiatives towards critical areas like housing and community services, which provide tangible benefits to our residents.
Should the public be allowed to ask live, unscripted questions of councillors during council meetings?
Engaging with our residents is the cornerstone of effective local government. To ensure that residents’ questions are asked as comprehensively and accurately as possible, I support a process where residents can submit their questions up until 6 PM on the night of Council Meetings so they can be answered by Council staff and elected Councillors at Council meetings.
Can you please provide a short personal statement detailing what your priorities are if elected, and what your vision for your electorate looks like.
My vision for the City of Maribyrnong is a community where everyone can access affordable housing and viable community services, celebrate our cultural diversity, and work to ensure Council is a Clean Energy powerhouse.
My priorities include advocating for social housing, enhancing our local economy, ensuring every voice is heard and valued, particularly those from our CALD communities and making it as simple as possible for innovative businesses and organisations willing to employ local people to base themselves in the municipality.
