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    Kristian Raspa

    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)

    Yes, I am a member of the Labor Party. I believe in advocating for policies that promote fairness and support for all community members to feel safe, respected and included.

    What is the most important issue facing your electorate?

    The rising cost of living is the most pressing issue for Brimbank residents. There is a need for greater support and access to essential services and resources to alleviate the pressures that families, individuals and local business owners are facing.

    Should/how can Council support local businesses?

    Council can support local businesses by offering mentoring and guidance to local business owners, as well as access to grants and training programs.  Council should promote local trader networking and local shopping campaigns. Strengthening the local economy and ensuring businesses thrive is essential for community prosperity.

    Should/how can Council support local creatives and industries?

    Council should invest in spaces, programs and initiatives that allow local creatives to showcase their work. This includes supporting festivals, local markets, and workshops that engage the community and provide a platform for creative expression and industry growth.

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

    Council should prioritise sustainable urban planning, improve green spaces and invest in renewable energy initiatives. Educating and collaborating with the community on sustainable practices and supporting local environmental projects can help bring about a positive change and mitigate the effects of climate change.

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

    Council should advocate for affordable housing, increase access to support services, and collaborate with state and federal governments to address homelessness. Providing emergency relief and community resources will help alleviate cost-of-living pressures for vulnerable residents.

    What should Council stop spending money on?

    Council should refrain from spending on non-essential projects that do not directly benefit the community, and direct resources towards critical areas such as public services, infrastructure, and community support programs.

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

    Absolutely! Public participation is essential for transparency and accountability. Allowing live, unscripted questions ensures that councillors remain accessible, open and responsive to community needs and concerns.

    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 is to create a vibrant, inclusive and thriving community that celebrates its diversity and provides opportunities that engage and benefit all residents. My priorities are to improve local services for residents and small businesses, empower our youth, improve our shared spaces and create a Brimbank where everyone feels heard and supported.

    raspakristian@gmail.com

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    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.

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