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’m a member of the Australian Greens. I joined last year when I decided to run for council because I truly identify with the Greens’ community spirit and their focus on social and environmental issues. I love the camaraderie within the party and being part of a movement that is growing strong in the west, an area I believe has been neglected for too long. Whether or not you’re political, I think competition is healthy, and having a broad range of candidates this year is exciting. It challenges the council and government to listen to the people and take action that truly reflects the needs of our community.
What is the most important issue facing your electorate?
There is a strong feeling in the west that real change is needed. People are frustrated by decisions made without proper consultation and by the sense that key issues like climate change, cost of living, and basic services aren’t being addressed. These problems are ongoing, but the lack of engagement from decision-makers has left residents feeling neglected and unheard.
Should/how can Council support local businesses?
As a small business owner and someone who was part of the Footscray Traders Association committee, I’ve seen firsthand how much our local businesses struggle to get off the ground and stay afloat. Many feel forgotten, especially in the Footscray CBD, which has faced safety concerns post-COVID. Shopfront businesses are essential to our cultural and community fabric. Council should provide better support in reducing red tape and addressing safety concerns, so our businesses can thrive in a vibrant, secure environment.
Should/how can Council support local creatives and industries?
This is a key issue for me. As someone deeply involved in Maribyrnong’s arts scene (mostly under my artist name, Lady Mohawk), including serving on the City of Maribyrnong Arts Advisory Committee, I know how critical it is to support our local creatives. Through my work producing local art events like Show Your WESTSIDE, I’ve seen the power of the arts in bringing communities together. However, many creatives find more opportunities outside the area. We need to change this by investing in our creative industries, so they can continue to enrich our local culture and economy.
Should/how can Council help alleviate the impact of climate extremes on local communities and ecosystems?
Greening our suburbs is essential—not just by planting trees but by maintaining them properly. We also need to tackle air quality, which is a serious issue in the west. The multiple local fires, including the 2018 West Footscray factory fire highlighted the risks to both our health and local ecosystems. Additionally, we must address the flood-prone areas of Maribyrnong, where hundreds of homes are at risk. Climate change is an emergency, and we need proactive solutions.
Should/how can Council help alleviate cost of living and homelessness?
Council needs to work closely with the state government to improve services for people experiencing homelessness and those struggling with mental health issues. Footscray, in particular, has visible challenges, and we need more accessible services like crisis centres to support vulnerable residents. This isn’t just a council issue—it requires collaboration at every level of government.
What should Council stop spending money on?
Council needs to reassess its spending priorities, adapting to the growing pressures and needs of our community.
Should the public be allowed to ask live, unscripted questions of councillors during council meetings?
Absolutely. Public accountability is crucial. If a question makes me uncomfortable, that’s fine—I’m here to represent you, not dodge tough issues. There should be fewer barriers for residents to voice their concerns directly to council.
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 priority is to invest in greening our suburbs and improving social and economic outcomes for all residents. I want to be a real advocate for the community, not just driven by my own agenda. We need more green spaces, better infrastructure, and a commitment to improving the quality of life in the City of Maribyrnong for everyone.
