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 the current Chair of the St Albans SEC a member of the Liberal Party of Australia .
What is the most important issue facing your electorate?
The most pressing issue facing our electorate is the poor state of local infrastructure and services. This includes broken footpaths, dangerous trees that need pruning or trimming, poorly maintained roads and nature strips, and local parks that have not been properly cared for. Additionally, illegal rubbish dumping, and delayed council collection contribute to a lack of cleanliness and presentability in our municipality. Despite high rates, the service levels are low, and this needs to be addressed to ensure our community is clean, safe, and well-maintained.
Should/how can Council support local businesses?
Yes, the Council should be actively working to support local businesses. “Made in Brimbank” should become a recognizable logo that promotes our local products and services. The Council has a role to play by offering incentives that support local businesses and attract capital investment. I support initiatives such as lower fees, reduced rates for startups, and cutting red tape to make Brimbank an attractive place for business investment. Additionally, reducing regulatory burdens and improving off-street parking will ensure customers can park safely and access shopping strips and major business areas, such as St Albans Market.
Should/how can Council support local creatives and industries?
Yes, the Council should actively encourage entrepreneurship and support local creatives. This will not only create jobs but also strengthen our community. By fostering a vibrant local economy and providing opportunities for creative talents, we can build a more dynamic and resilient community.
Should/how can Council help alleviate the impact of climate extremes on local communities and ecosystems?
The Council has a vital role to play in mitigating the impact of climate extremes on local communities and ecosystems. By ensuring the planting of more trees in parks and nature strips, we can help reduce the effects of climate change while making our city greener and more liveable. Additionally, increasing the number of trees will improve air quality, contributing to a healthier environment for all residents.
Should/how can Council help alleviate cost of living and homelessness?
The cost-of-living crisis is the most important issue affecting everyday Australians, and the Council has a crucial role to play in addressing it. More funds should be directed towards local food banks and charities to support those in need. Additionally, the Council could subsidize a kitchen to feed our local homeless population and those struggling to put food on the table due to rising costs. This can be achieved by finding savings and cutting waste in council areas that do not address the key needs of residents, such as roads, rates, and rubbish.
What should Council stop spending money on?
I believe council should only spend rates payments on ratepayers and local issues. Council has no place promoting national issues and international issues, as well as federal and state government issues. These are not areas where council funds should be wasted. I propose establishing a commission of audit to review all council expenditures. This commission will focus on identifying and cutting non-core spending to save money and provide relief to ratepayers wherever possible.
Should the public be allowed to ask live, unscripted questions of councillors during council meetings?
I firmly believe that the public should be allowed to ask live, unscripted questions of councillors during council meetings. This right should be guaranteed by law to ensure a vibrant democracy where any ratepayer can engage with their elected councillor in a civil, polite, respectful, and safe manner. Accountability and scrutiny are essential components of effective governance, and allowing public questions during council meetings is a crucial step in fostering transparency and trust within our community.
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 priorities are rooted in Liberal Menzies values, emphasizing the inalienable rights and freedoms of all individuals. Advocating for a lean local government that minimizes interference in our daily lives. If elected, I am committed to delivering significant improvements in local infrastructure, including better roads, recreational parks, sporting facilities, footpaths, and clean parks and gardens. I will work diligently to cut council waste and provide cost of living relief to the most vulnerable members of our community. My vision is to transform Brimbank into the best place to live in the west by 2028, ensuring it is a vibrant, welcoming, and thriving community for all residents.
