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 Greens member and a Greens-endorsed candidate for the Saltwater ward in Maribyrnong.
What is the most important issue facing your electorate?
Selecting one issue is incredibly difficult. There’s a clear need for improved infrastructure for people who walk, roll, and cycle, while ensuring our green spaces are preserved and expanded with more trees and native plantings. I also want to see genuine affordable housing choices, decisive action on climate change, better mental health care and support services, and the revitalisation of Footscray CBD. I’d also like to see a stronger focus on protecting our natural environment and wildlife.
Additionally, I’d like to address waste management. We’re sending more to landfill, and with even a small amount of contamination, recycling efforts are wasted. I’d push for better systems to reduce landfill. Council also provides essential services like libraries, sportsgrounds, and childcare, and I believe greater State funding is needed to enhance these services for our community.
Should/how can Council support local businesses?
Council can support local businesses. Council can create online and in-person networking hubs for professional collaboration, offering initiatives like ‘Shop Local’ campaigns, facade improvement grant programs, and grants. These efforts aim to invigorate the local economy and attract new customers through promotions and renewal. Councils can promote and support sustainability by encouraging eco-friendly and waste reduction.
Should/how can Council support local creatives and industries?
Council can support local creatives and industries through initiatives like the Show Your WESTSIDE community arts exhibition, funded by a council grant. This program not only showcased local talent but also fostered community engagement. Further activation of public spaces through art installations can enhance the area’s landscape while providing platforms for artists. Organising live music festivals and cultural events would create valuable opportunities for local musicians and performers. Increased funding for events, festivals, and community-led activations is essential for Maribyrnong’s cultural vibrancy and economic growth.
Should/how can Council help alleviate the impact of climate extremes on local communities and ecosystems?
To alleviate the impact of climate extremes on local communities and ecosystems, council can invest in a comprehensive green infrastructure strategy. Key initiatives include tree planting, establishing urban forests, and installing green roofs on bus stops to manage stormwater, reduce urban heat, and enhance biodiversity. Creating community gardens and dedicated spaces for growing food will also promote local food systems and strengthen community ties.
To support sustainable transport, council can roll out EV charging stations and expand shared car systems. Developing active transport infrastructure, such as accessible ‘greenpaths’ integrated with tree and nature strip plantings, will connect neighbourhoods with local shopping areas.
Should/how can Council help alleviate cost of living and homelessness?
The council can play a vital role in addressing the cost of living and homelessness through a multi-faceted approach. By increasing the availability of affordable housing and utilising vacant land for community housing. Supporting local businesses and creating job opportunities in retail, hospitality, and community services can further alleviate financial pressures through job creation.
Promoting and supporting community initiatives like food banks and community kitchens can address food insecurity. Council can advocate for broader policy changes at the state and federal levels to address systemic issues in housing security and availability and social services, ensuring long-term solutions to alleviate the cost of living and homelessness.
What should Council stop spending money on?
Reassessing underutilised facilities is essential; closing or repurposing spaces that are rarely used can eliminate ongoing maintenance costs and redirect resources to areas that better serve the community’s needs. Limiting promotional expenses by cutting back on printed materials and shifting towards more effective digital marketing strategies can significantly reduce costs while improving outreach.
Should the public be allowed to ask live, unscripted questions of councillors during council meetings?
Allowing the public to ask live, unscripted questions of councillors during meetings can enhance transparency and community engagement. This provides residents with an opportunity to directly address their concerns, fostering a more participatory democratic process. This approach can help councillors better understand the issues facing their constituents and encourage more responsive governance.
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 include improving active transport and advocating for safer, more accessible pathways and streets for those who walk, roll, and ride. I will push for increased greenery through tree and nature strip planting, stronger environmental protections, cleaner air, and public spaces, along with greater efforts to safeguard our natural environment, including wildlife and green spaces.
I envision an electorate where genuine affordable housing and enhanced mental health care and support services effectively address homelessness and cost-of-living pressures. I will work to activate vibrant public spaces that foster connection and inclusivity through arts, culture, and creativity.
I am committed to advocating for genuine affordable housing, expanding outreach services, and pushing for legislative changes at the State Government level to prevent land banking and look at how zoning can be adjusted to create more homes for everyone.
