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)
I am a member of Liberal Party; I joined this year. I was a member of the Animal Justice Party in 2021/2022. I’m not part of any advocacy group at the moment, however I do run a Podcast called West Matters, where I speak to different people in the West on all matters relating to the Western Suburbs.
What is the most important issue facing your electorate?
I think as a community, I and many others have serious concerns about the level of crime in our electorate. Keilor Downs police station went from being available 24/7, to now running 10am-6pm, and we had no representation from our Local MPs to advocate on our behalf. Separately, I think residents want to see their rate payer’s money better spent on Roads, Rubbish and Local Services.
Should/how can Council support local businesses?
Take away blockers regarding various permits, and offer grants to small business to run from Brimbank and encourage new business to the area. We need proactive action from Council to do this. This part of the Western Suburbs is forgotten, and I’d love for Brimbank to become a destination hub for new business.
Should/how can Council support local creatives and industries?
There is a lot in the way of current grants and funding for creatives, Brimbank has a great setup in the Sunshine Council building called iHarvest Coworking for small businesses and startups.
Should/how can Council help alleviate the impact of climate extremes on local communities and ecosystems?
The West of Melbourne has the lowest tree canopy cover in metropolitan Victoria. In 2018 there was just 5.5 per cent of urban tree coverage in Melbourne in 2018, compared to 17.4 per cent in the inner south-east and 25.9 per cent in the east. So Brimbank needs more green spaces to increase our tree canopy cover.
Should/how can Council help alleviate cost of living and homelessness?
We need more social and affordable housing so I think this would need some collaboration with the State Govt. and maybe council can look at Foodbanks, community kitchens and Meal services for out most vulnerable residents.
What should Council stop spending money on?
I’d love to see council review their spend on programs and services that are duplicated across the municipality, and cuts to staff and councillor travel expenses which are unnecessary.
Should the public be allowed to ask live, unscripted questions of councillors during council meetings?
Absolutely, I don’t know why the current council opposed this motion last year.
Can you please provide a short personal statement detailing what your priorities are if elected, and what your vision for your electorate looks like.
