By John Lister
Each time I knock on a door in my electorate, I’m reminded of the reason I ran for Victorian Parliament in the first place: because I want to work in a Labor government that is on the side of communities like ours.
I never imagined my life would take this path.
I grew up right here in Werribee. I went to local schools – a MacKillop College kid with a second-hand blazer and all. I worked hard, went to university, and became a teacher because I wanted to give back to young people growing up in communities like mine.
Today I live locally with my partner and our pets, not far from the beautiful Werribee River.
Like many people here, I want to raise my future family in this community.
I’m also a volunteer firefighter, ready to help locals on what can sometimes be the most difficult days of their lives.
Right now, families across our community are feeling the squeeze. The cost of living is rising, and people have less time to spend with each other. These challenges are real. I saw them as a teacher at Wyndham Central, and I see them every day as I move around our electorate speaking with local families.
And when times are tough, our state Labor Members are here to support the community and businesses to stay open and protect local jobs.
During the Global Financial Crisis, it was our local member Julia Gillard who supported families in our toughest times.
At the same time, we’ve never stopped listening to our community. Every day, my colleagues and I are advocating for better roads, improved public transport, and investments that save families time and money.
As Wyndham has grown, Labor governments have delivered the infrastructure our community needs: the Regional Rail Link, upgrades to major arterial roads, new local schools, and expanding the Werribee Hospital.
I’m proud to say this kid from Werribee grew up in a community shaped by investments that only Labor governments delivered.
When I speak with neighbours, I’m reminded of the values that define our community: fairness, opportunity, and looking out for one another. These are Werribee values. They’re also Labor values – and they’re why I’m proud to serve as part of the Allan Labor Government. But I also know there is more work to do.
Like you, I drive the same roads, use the same services, and shop at the same local stores. I will never take this community for granted. That’s why I’m fighting for the upgrades our community needs – including the Ballan Road upgrade, a new bus service for Harpley and additional train services on the Werribee line. The new Ison Road Extension is also on track to open in late 2026, helping make travel around Werribee safer, faster and more reliable.
I’m also fighting for better schools, more public transport, stronger health services, and safer communities.
I will always advocate for our community. It’s what I’ve done every day since becoming your local representative. Because only a Labor government will continue investing in communities like ours.
It’s my honour to serve as your local Member of Parliament, and to give back to the community that has given me so much.
John Lister, Member for Werribee.
You can visit my office at Tenancy 3,
1–13 Watton Street, Werribee VIC 3030
or contact me via phone (03) 9741 1133,
or email john.lister@parliament.vic.gov.au
