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    Sophie Melhem

    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)

    I am running as an independent candidate, focusing on the needs and concerns of our community without the influence of a political party.

    What is the most important issue facing your electorate?

    The most important issue facing our electorate is the rising cost of living, which is impacting many families and individuals in our community. Addressing this is crucial for ensuring everyone can thrive.

    Should/how can Council support local businesses?

    The Council can support local businesses by providing grants, reducing fees, and creating opportunities for local markets and events. Promoting “buy local” campaigns can also help boost our local economy.

    Should/how can Council support local creatives and industries?

    The Council can support local creatives and industries by offering funding for art programs, facilitating partnerships between artists and businesses, and creating spaces for exhibitions and performances to showcase local talent.

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

    To alleviate the impact of climate extremes, the Council can invest in green infrastructure, enhance community resilience programs, and promote sustainable practices, such as tree planting initiatives and improving public transport.

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

    The Council can help alleviate the cost of living and homelessness by increasing affordable housing options, providing support services for those in need, and collaborating with local organisations to create more job opportunities.

    What should Council stop spending money on?

    The Council should stop spending money on initiatives that do not directly benefit the community or have proven ineffective. It’s important to prioritise funding that has a tangible impact on residents’ lives.

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

    Yes, the public should be allowed to ask live, unscripted questions of councillors during council meetings. This promotes transparency and accountability, allowing residents to engage directly with their representatives.

    Can you please provide a short personal statement detailing what your priorities are if elected, and what your vision for your electorate looks like.

    If elected, my priorities will include addressing the cost of living, supporting local businesses and creatives, and enhancing our community’s resilience to climate change. My vision for Grange Ward is a vibrant, inclusive community where everyone has access to opportunities, resources, and support. Together, we can build a future that reflects our shared values and aspirations.

    SOPHIEMELHEMFORWYNDHAM@OUTLOOK.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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