More

    Deepak Bansal

    Date:

    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)

    No.

    What is the most important issue facing your electorate?

    • Safety /crime at streets and park 
    • Infrastructure maintenance at parka and roads
    • Unsupported local businesses

    Should/how can Council support local businesses?

    • Provide grants 
    • Make the process easier and provide more support for local businesses
    • Promote local , setup more local markets and promote organise more local events

    Should/how can Council support local creatives and industries?

    Yes, definitely. I will support and promote local creativity or industries by providing special grants to local industries. Simplify the licensing and permit process. Promotes more event and local festivals and multiple others way including partnerships with local businesses/organisation/ industries.

    Should/how can Council help alleviate the impact of climate extremes on local communities and ecosystems?

    Yes, definitely. By promoting and building green infrastructure. Educate residents about climate risks and promote community involvement in sustainability initiatives, such as tree planting and conservation efforts. Invest in the restoration of local ecosystems, such as wetlands and forests.

    Should/how can Council help alleviate cost of living and homelessness?

    Yes, I’ll promote affordable housing by working with developers to create mixed-income projects and using government grants to support low-income housing initiatives. To help vulnerable community members, I’ll partner with local organisations to ensure they have access to essential services like healthcare and food assistance, while regularly assessing gaps in support. For community safety and inclusivity, I’ll implement programs to address discrimination and enhance accessibility, collaborating with law enforcement and community groups to create safe spaces. Regular forums will give residents a chance to voice their concerns and contribute to solutions.

    What should Council stop spending money on?

    Council should stop funding unnecessary and ineffective programs and infrastructure . Should stop or funding project, works initiative which are not align with community needs or in duplicate in nature

    Should the public be allowed to ask live, unscripted questions of councillors during council meetings?

    Yes.

    Can you please provide a short personal statement detailing what your priorities are if elected, and what your vision for your electorate looks like.

    I am honoured to have been a resident of Wyndham for over 22 years, raising my two children here and actively participating in initiatives that bring families and neighbours closer together.

    As a Justice of the Peace and with an extensive career in State Government, I have gained the experience, knowledge, and skills needed to understand and address the challenges we face as a community.

    My priorities are clear: I am committed to enhancing the safety of our streets, improving local education, and ensuring that essential services are accessible to everyone. I believe in a future where Wyndham grows sustainably, benefiting all residents while preserving the unique character of our neighborhoods. My focus will be on supporting families, improving infrastructure, and ensuring that every resident’s voice is heard and respected in the decision-making process. With a strong commitment to justice and fairness, I will work tirelessly for the betterment of Wyndham. I ask for your support to help turn this vision into reality.

    RMIT Journalism Students
    RMIT Journalism Students

    On your behalf we have asked every candidate who put their hand up to stand in Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong and Wyndham the same set of questions that were formulated with the feedback of the Westsider readers.

    Our thanks goes to first year RMIT Journalism students, who helped contact candidates as part of their final assessment in COMM2835, Journalism: Reporting and Writing.

    A big shout out to Dr Josie Vine, a Westsider regular, who coordinated the project and Dr Sharon Smith who so graciously lent us her students and devised the activity as part of their assessment.

    Share

    Latest Articles

    Latest edition

    #101 October 2024

    Recent editions

    Subscribe

    Become a supporter

    The Westsider is run on the power of volunteers. Your contribution directly contributes to ensuring we can continue serving and celebrating our community.

    Related articles