Maribyrnong City Council election candidates

Hi, I’m Brad. I’m running in this year’s council election as a candidate with Victorian Socialists because I believe the west is being left behind. I’m a West Footscray local and have been a mental health worker for eight years. I’m also a trade union delegate, fighting for workers in the community sector who are being hit by inflation and funding cuts. While politicians talk about mental health, they refuse to do anything about the underlying causes. In many cases, they make problems worse by cutting funding for social services while boosting criminal justice spending and providing tax breaks for property developers and big business. If elected, I’ll fight for our council to prioritise human need rather than corporate greed.

I am a proud mother of five grown children and have lived in this area for 51 years. As a former Independent MP and twice mayor, I understand our community's needs. In a cost-of-living crisis, we must focus on rates, roads, rubbish and keeping the budget balanced. If elected, I will: -Slash unnecessary council spending -Remove parking meters from Footscray CBD and reduce hospital parking fees to support our vulnerable and essential workers -Advocate for widening of Ashley Street under Tottenham Station -Secure more parkland and sporting spaces on disused government land (example: VicTrack railway corridors and Maribyrnong Defence Site) -improve safety by bringing back community policing-Increase CCTV cameras for vulnerable groups -Help our small businesses secure grants and tackle CBD trader waste -Find solutions for the unsafe Yarraville train crossing and improve parking -Clean our city by increasing rubbish bins and removing tagging/poleposters/litter -Have wine/spirit/beer/juice/bottles included in the container deposit scheme (example: QLD) -Widen footpaths where needed and possible. It is time for genuine, proactive, inclusive consultation. My achievements include securing the multimillion-dollar redevelopment of Footscray Hospital, Whitten Oval, RecWest West Footscray and the Revitalisation of Braybrook. Your Voice -My Action-Our Community. Call me or Text 0402 356 664

My job is to improve people’s lives, and that’s what I’ll do on Council. I grew up in a migrant family with insecure work. Today I’m a community lawyer, unionist and activist for multicultural communities. Defending people from discrimination, harassment and exploitation has given me the tools to stand up for locals in our community. In my conversations with locals, what I’ve heard is that we want a Council that does its own work, listens to what people need, and makes decisions that improve our lives. That’s why my vision for Maribyrnong focuses on listening and working with our community, defending and rebuilding high value services like early childhood education and care, and better planning for quality affordable and social housing. My priorities also include more green space, a maintenance blitz to fix rundown infrastructure, building up central Footscray by cracking down on developers hoarding disused land, and taking practical steps to keep our community safe, vibrant and cohesive. I’m running to fight for fairness on Council as your local voice for our community and a Labor Party member. With your support, I’ll bring my experience in advocacy to change Council for the better. My Facebook / Instagram: @wallace4bluestone

Having lived in West Footscray for 39 years, I’ve been deeply involved in our community and am committed to a council that celebrates and supports every member, regardless of age, background, or sexuality. My goal is to build a more inclusive, vibrant community where everyone can thrive. My family runs Bharat Traders, a local business on Barkly St for over 35 years. As President of the West Footscray Traders Association I’ve worked to energise our local shopping scene. I’ve created events such as the Festival of Colours, Festival of Lights, Christmas Carols, Halloween in West Footscray, and Car Boot Markets. I also started The Op Shop in response to community demand. I advocate for small businesses, including representing residents and traders against Woolworths in VCAT. I’ve received a Community Engagement Award for my work with the elderly and differently abled during the pandemic. My policies aim to lower rates through reduced expenditure, enhance open spaces, promote mental health, promote active transport, encourage sustainability, build more childcare centres, affordable housing, appropriate development, support local businesses and free youth activities/sports at RecWest. I'm a member of Community Labor for Maribyrnong and confident we can bring about the positive changes our community needs.

I’m a West Footscray local, cybersecurity expert, community advocate and dad. I love raising my family here and have a proven track record of advocating for our community. I’ve been passionately involved in local projects such as developing a community vision for the Old Footscray Hospital Site and volunteering with BikeWest to implement safety improvements for cyclists and pedestrians. If elected as your Greens councillor, I plan to work full time in my role as your councillor, my priorities are to: [1] invest in more safe cycling and walking infrastructure such as separated bike lanes and pedestrian crossings; [2] reinvigorate central Footscray and the WeFo village to help our local businesses thrive; [3] expand our green spaces and parks. You can find out more at http://greens.org.au/pierre-vairo or reach out at pierre.vairo@vic.greens.org.au. Put our community first, vote [1] Pierre Vairo.

My name is Lochlann Clarke, I have lived in Maribyrnong my whole life and have a deep understanding of what the community is about and what the people value within the community. My mission is to support the youth and be their voice in local council. Furthermore, I aim to back the local arts and sports clubs within the area, as I have been involved in various sporting clubs and understand the value of having such communities, especially in Maribyrnong. I am passionate about helping the community and my end goal is to give back to the people of Maribyrnong, by being their representative and supporting their values. I am committed in being active in the community and listen to what the people want from their council. I hold values in environmental conservation and want to push for more trees to be planted in the Braybrook area, making it a greener and cleaner place. I intend on improve the safety of the footpaths in Braybrook making it easier and safer for all pedestrians, allowing them to get to where they need to go without any potential dangers or hazards. Ultimately, I strive to make Maribyrnong a better place for all.

I work in the automotive parts industry and love to play soccer at Footscray United Rangers Football Club. I love living in our community, but right now many of us are struggling with the cost-of-living and rental/housing crises. We need our council to do more for our community. If elected as your Greens councillor, I’ll prioritise: [1] investment in safe walking and cycling infrastructure like separated bike lanes and safer pedestrian crossings; [2] the revitalisation of Ashley Street; [3] more affordable and sustainable housing and green space; [4] more frequent and reliable public transport; [5] expanding essential services that alleviate cost-of-living pressures, such as community childcare, maternal health and libraries; and [6] bring down your power bills and take climate action through solar bulk-buying, including for renters, and supporting households to get off gas. You can find more information at http://greens.org.au/chris-wilson or reach out at chris.wilson@vic.greens.org.au. Put our community first by voting [1] Chris Wilson.

I am councillor Cuc Lam, your local representative on Maribyrnong council. I'm proud to have served as your Mayor this year. Since arriving as a Vietnamese refugee in 1978, I have seen first hand the importance of community support. I voice my values to local council, ensuring people of all cultures and business sizes are heard. As your representative I have achieved many things for residents including successfully advocating for reduced speed limits in residential roads such as Joseph Road, being a voice for climate change and introduced important centennial milestones within our community. We also expanded the Braybook's Men's Shed to assist women with new practical skills and introduced family and friends events such as the free movie evenings within local parks and reserves. With your vote, I will work towards increasing the green spaces within Braybrook and keeping local streets and businesses free of graffiti. I will advocate to improve the social housing in Braybook and continue to ensure sustainable waste solutions and climate change is implemented. Continuing to support local sport and community groups will also be a top priority. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me on 0481739298, or email cuclam.braybrook@gmail.com

Hi, I’m Catherine. I’m running for Maribyrnong Council as a candidate with the Victorian Socialists because for years I’ve watched politicians ignore our suburbs to instead help out their big business mates. Whether it’s housing, public transport and roads, or access to quality public services and green space—Melbourne's west has been denied the investment we deserve. Our area used to be an affordable community for migrants and workers. But it’s becoming impossible to live in. We’ve seen developers make millions from the soaring cost of home ownership and rent, whilst the state government sells off desperately needed public housing. Councils have a responsibility to help turn this situation around, but they need people who will fight for change. Working people and our interests need to be prioritised over the wealth of a small few. As a long-time activist I have been part of organising local campaigns for social justice, climate action, Palestine, and against racism, inequality and the privatisation of services. I am a trade unionist, having worked in both universities and hospitals, and am now completing my Masters degree to become a secondary teacher. If I’m elected to Maribyrnong council this October, I’ll fight for all of us.

The nation of Australia, renowned as the land of opportunity, is where countless aspire to reside and cultivate their futures. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this esteemed nation and contribute to my community's betterment. Your trust and support are not just important, but integral to my candidacy. I deeply value your role in this journey. The 2024 Council election is my opportunity to demonstrate my energy and care for this community. With a proactive, present, and productive approach, I aim to address and fulfil the community's needs and aspirations, ensuring a secure and optimistic future for all. I want to preserve and advocate for a pristine and sustainable environment. With your support, I will not just strive but wholeheartedly commit to promoting further initiatives to foster a cleaner, greener environment, always keeping your needs at the forefront of my actions. I wholeheartedly endorse and encourage the rich tapestry of multicultural communities, recognising the significance of our collective efforts in preserving our heritage for the prosperity of future generations. Let us collaborate, with my voice and passion, to create an innovative community characterised by an enhanced, eco-friendly environment that cherishes our heritage.

Hello, I am Pete Thomas, your local committed candidate for the Burndap Ward of the Maribyrnong City Council elections. I am a family person with lived experiences, having worked as a journalist, health care practitioner and business owner. My community engagement, as a long-term advocate and volunteer, involves making a practical contribution with progressive outcomes. I aim to deliver local projects that matter to you and your family. As your representative, my goal is to enhance the wellbeing of residents and improve the liveability of our area. I will commit to: effective community consultation; a museum, gallery and performing arts centre at the old Footscray hospital site; fenced dog parks; feral pigeon control; Mitchell Street upgrade and bi-annual hard rubbish collections. Working with Council, I will proudly serve the Burndap Community, to meet its environmental, economic and social needs.

Hi, my name is Mohamed Semra but my friends call me Mo, I am an independent candidate and award-winning social entrepreneur. If elected, I’ll work for you. I promise to listen and act on the issues that matter most. Having lived locally for 20 years, I’ve seen our community become increasingly unaffordable, with rising rates and rents placing immense pressure on families. Housing affordability is slipping out of reach for many, and we can address this through sensible development. Futhermore, we need a thoughtful approach to managing our resources, such as fixing road congestion, enhancing parks, and offering meaningful programs for families and kids. Local businesses are the backbone of our economy, and by helping them thrive, we can generate local jobs and create a vibrant, thriving municipality. Community safety and well-being is also critical—by improving street lighting and expanding mental health services, we can ensure safer streets and neighbourhoods. I’m passionate about practical solutions— investing in better infrastructure, protecting green spaces, and supporting families. I will be a councillor for everyone, regardless of race, religion, gender, ability, or sexual identity, always putting community first. A vote for me is a vote for a future-focused council. Contact -0406309524, mohamed.semra@gmail.com, mohamedsemra.com.

I have lived in Footscray for more than 24 years. I have actively raised funds for the new Footscray Hospital, Royal Children's Hospital, Our Lady’s Church, Quang Minh Temple, Footscray RSL, and Victorian Bush Fire Appeal. I have also organised clean-up days in Footscray and along the Maribyrnong River. I will focus on issues that affect our community. If elected, I will strive to upgrade available parking spaces, maintain and improve the central business precinct, fix footpaths and roads, remove graffiti and rubbish, work towards keeping our river clean, improve our parks, and work with local police to ensure the safety of residents. I will also work to increase childcare places, upgrade sports facilities, and support local businesses and artists by continuing to organise local festivals. I love people, nature, and animals. I support our local team, the Western Bulldogs. I would be very honoured and humbled to be your local Councillor.

As an independent candidate and long-term Burndap family resident, I am committed to delivering balanced, financially sound, environmentally responsible, and community-focused representation. With two decades of experience in social infrastructure and property funds management, I bring both financial expertise and a deep passion for creating lasting community value. I believe in evidence-based decision-making, ensuring that every choice is well-informed, transparent, and made in the best interest of our community. I have experience on diverse projects, including parks, justice facilities, childcare centers, specialist and disability accommodation, seniors living, and residential developments—all with a focus on strengthening our social infrastructure. My priority is to listen to you, engage with stakeholders, and advocate for outcomes that meet Burndap’s unique needs. I am deeply committed to fostering inclusion and equity for all residents, ensuring that everyone in our community has a voice and the opportunity to thrive. My vision is to create a better life for all of us as we grow older together. Together, we can enhance our local infrastructure while staying true to our environmental goals and preserving our community spirit. Thank you for your support!

I am a current Maribyrnong City Councillor. My partner and I raised our two boys in the greater Footscray area, where both still live. I have been involved in decades of local community work, including social and environmental justice, and advocating for schools to put wellbeing at the centre of student learning. I was President of the Footscray Primary School Council and on the Footscray High School Council. I’ve also coached juniors and seniors in two local soccer clubs. As a Councillor, I’ve worked to save and increase public and social housing, improve food security, make our streets pedestrian and cycling friendly, and preserve and expand our green and public spaces. I also initiated Council’s discussion recognising January 26 as a day of mourning, and made our Council the first in Victoria to adopt the #racismnotwelcome campaign. Last year I moved the motion ensuring our Council was the second in Victoria to condemn Israel’s war on the people of Palestine. My priority is supporting community, including neighbourhood houses, sport clubs, social enterprises and local action groups and community initiatives. If re-elected, I’ll organise monthly Ward meetings and fight to expand Council public services, including childcare, health, aged and wellbeing services.

I'm a Footscray local, mum and artist known as Lady Mohawk. My career in health, law enforcement, and family violence support, combined with my personal experiences, has given me a deep understanding of the challenges our community faces, like housing affordability and the rising cost of living. In the past 18 months, I've organised three major art exhibitions in Footscray, including the Show Your Westside Art Prize, which attracted 600 attendees to the opening night this year. I've also been involved with the Footscray Traders Association, arranging wellbeing events for local businesses. I’m committed to our community, and if elected, I will bring empathy and a community-focused approach to my role as councillor. My priorities are to lower household bills, take meaningful climate action by supporting the transition away from gas, invest in safe cycling and walking infrastructure, improve pedestrian crossings, ensure clean air, and promote a vibrant local arts and culture scene. Find out more at greens.org.au/sally-walshe or email me at sally.walshe@vic.greens.org.au. Vote [1] Sally Walshe.

As a local mum, a sports enthusiast, and a passionate community advocate, I know first-hand the challenges and joys of living in our wonderful community. Since arriving in Australia as a refugee, I’ve spent over 17 years working across the Corporate, Non-Profit, Education, and Health sectors, driven by a commitment to helping others, supporting the community and fighting for justice. My values are guided by the African philosophy of ‘Ubuntu’, which teaches solidarity, kindness, and mutual respect. I’m running for election because our community deserves a Council that will put their needs first, listens and acts. I will fight for transparency in Council decisions, better support for families through more affordable childcare, and thriving neighbourhoods with accessible facilities for all. I’m committed to improving local infrastructure, by fixing roads and installing a pedestrian crossing at Emu and Hampstead Rd. I’ll advocate for sustainable development and disaster recovery planning, ensuring we're prepared for future flooding and other natural disasters. My mother taught me, “If you’re not happy about an issue, stand up and do something about it!” That’s why I’m here—to represent your voice and, together, make the City of Maribyrnong a place where businesses, families, and youth can thrive.

Born and raised in Footscray, I am currently a serving JP and registered Victorian Lobbyist - I still get involved in community matters! As an older person, I value fairness and justice for the underprivileged. I have 13 Grand children and 5 Great Grand children, so I understand the challenges with child care and kindergarten placements. I will do what I can to make sure every child has the opportunity to get placed. I started the petition for the new Footscray Hospital in Oct 2014 and am happy we will soon have our new hospital as a result of our work. Our local seniors could use the old hospital as a aged care facility, we need a better deal for our older folks. I am totally and passionately independent and am free of the burden and obligation of local political parties and proud to run as an independent candidate.

I have spent my entire life in the City of Maribyrnong. I received the Mayoral Award 2017 for my contribution to Maribyrnong regarding public amenity, public safety and following up Vic Govt entities that let the council and residents down. I was a Commonwealth public servant for 21 yrs, with expertise in asset management and human resources. I fully understand process and structure and its importance in quality decision making. I will examine the existing council policies and make sure they reflect the current community needs and I value the contribution of all of our cultures, participants and residents . I love the City of Maribyrnong. I have always believed in independent council free from the misery and arrogance of local politics and proudly independent

Hello, River Ward! I’m Cameron McDonald,. My journey in River Ward began when we built in Waterford Green, and later, moved near Randall St. My children grew up here, attending St. Margaret's, and we've built our lives in River Ward. From 2012 to 2016, I had the honour of representing River Ward as a councillor , In 2016, I became River Ward’s first independent mayor. I will focus on what the council can truly impact, without getting distracted by non-council policies and issues. I’m running as an independent candidate because I believe in putting our community first. My campaign is self-funded because I believe that true representation comes without strings attached. I wont accept donations from political parties, developers, gambling companies, or others that seek to influence for their own benefit. I will be unbiased & transparent, ensuring that council is free from corruption and self-interest. No party politics or party obligation. Good council thrives on conversation and compromise, always aiming to serve the public.

I have grown up, gone to school, worked, and volunteered in Maribyrnong since I could remember! My passion for our city continues to grow, and that’s why I want to continue to find smarter and better ways to give back to our community. Our city has a proud history of multicultural communities, and my parents are part of that history, having migrated here as Vietnamese refugees who chose to make the West our home, we have never looked back. Maribyrnong has been our home for over 25 years, and we want to continue to give back to this community that we call home. I am a voice for our community, who will always put our community first.

I’m a barrister and president of Lawyers for Forests, and a third-generation Westie! I love living and raising my family in our wonderful Kingsville community, but with the cost-of-living, rental/housing and climate crises putting pressure on all of us, we need our council to do more for us. If elected as your Greens councillor, I’ll prioritise: [1] advocating to remove thousands of trucks off our local roads for safety and cleaner air; [2] transparency and accountability with the flood inquiry recommendations; [3] real community consultation over the Maribyrnong Defence Site plan, with any redevelopment containing public and genuinely affordable housing, not just handing over the land to private developers; [4] supporting investment in safe walking and cycling infrastructure like separated bike lanes and safer pedestrian crossings; [5] expanding our parks and green spaces, and supporting wildlife and biodiversity. You can find more information at https://greens.org.au/vic/person/danny-cash or reach out at danny.cash@vic.greens.org.au. Put our community first, vote [1] Danny Cash.

Hi, I’m Brendan. I’m running in this year’s council election as a candidate with Victorian Socialists because I believe big business interests have taken over the council. I grew up in Texas. The USA showed me how ugly inequality can get when corporate interests are left unchecked. I don’t want my new home to go down that road. We must defend our public resources, and fight for more, before it’s too late. Politicians at all levels of government are in the pockets of the rich. We need councillors who prioritise the public good over their own political ambitions. I’ve been a community organiser for almost 20 years, both here and in the USA. If elected in October, I’ll fight to put people before profit.

I am an independent candidate for the Saltwater Ward. My family and I have lived and worked in the inner West for over 24 years and have been residents of the Saltwater Ward for ten years. I retired after a decade of teaching at the local TAFE having previously worked in community service organisations for 20 years. I now volunteer with Girl Guides and the new Footscray Community Gardens and Learning Place. I completed a Master of public advocacy from Victoria University and have been active in the fight against the discrimination and exclusion of people living with a disability. Councils are central to bringing about a change to enable those of us living with disability, mental health, and aging to thrive. I would like to see expanded processes developed by the Council to ensure more residents can make a real contribution to decisions that shape our rich, culturally diverse community. The knowledge and passion we share for our community are essential to resolving the complex problems of urban development, climate change, transport, the lack of arts spaces and the poverty that impacts our neighbourhoods. I have not sought or received endorsements, contributions, or in-kind donations to support my nomination.

If you want a councillor who will listen to you, I am the person you should vote for. I have extensive experience working in local government, community and not-for-profits, and I have lived in the area for over 25 years. I am an independent candidate, and I am committed to transparent actions that reflect community needs. I will pursue actions that reduce all types of harmful pollution, from our local community. My vision is to make the City of Maribyrnong a great place to live, work and play. Where we will celebrate our diversity and foster an inclusive atmosphere that values different cultures, identities and views of the world.

I’m a local teacher and founder of the Joseph Road Precinct Action Group (JRPAG). I’ve lived in our community for 20 years – there’s nowhere else I’d choose to live! I live in Footscray and work in Yarraville and am excited to be a Greens-endorsed candidate. I’m a supporter of sustainable, safe and liveable cities. My experience as a Lifeline volunteer has strengthened my commitment to advocating for improved mental health care and support services in our community. I will fight for progressive change in our community. If elected, my priorities will include; improving bike and walking infrastructure; promoting clean air by making the Inner West a low-emission zone; support community climate emergency responses; advocate for genuine affordable housing; push the government to properly fund essential services and infrastructure such as libraries, parks and green spaces, public and sporting facilities, arts venues and playgrounds. I am committed to supporting arts, culture and creativity and I will advocate for the revitalisation of Hopkins Street and Footscray CBD. You can find out more at http://greens.org.au/samantha-meredith or reach out at samantha.meredith@vic.greens.org.au. Put our community first, vote [1] Samantha Meredith.

My name is Aman Gaur and as your councillor, I will invest in local sports clubs, community art programs, increase greenery and take practical action on climate change. Speaking with many young parents, I know there are long waitlists for early childhood facilities in the inner west – and as your councillor I will deliver more council-run centres for young families. We must also address land-banking with more significant penalties and invest in our roads and council services. Born in India, I moved to Australia as a child, and I know what it means to grow up in a strong and fair community. And now I want to help build a better-connected community for the next generation of families. Locally, I’m on the board of the Footscray Community Arts Centre as an independent observer and the committee of the Seddon Cricket Club. I’m also an active Labor party member in our community. Professionally, I lead a climate change NGO working to deliver more affordable electric cars. Vote for me to elect a councillor who will listen to your voice and take effective, proactive steps to get things done for you!

Hi, I’m Lucy. I got involved in politics during the campaign for marriage equality. Since then, I have been fighting against inequality, particularly the increasing level of poverty across Victoria. Our communities should have access to the resources and support we need to live and enjoy life. Recently, I have been active in fighting for a free Palestine, leading and organising student demonstrations and speaking at the Footscray Mall Palestine action in late 2023. I believe we need to campaign against all forms of racism in our communities. Rents, power bills and grocery and medical costs are rising at the same time as billionaire profits are ballooning. Our council should be doing all it can to ease the cost of living for working people, not cosying up to property developers. I’m running with the Victorian Socialists to fight for a council that puts people before profit.

Labor Councillor & Mayor that previously worked as part of a Councillor team achieving, 1. CCTV installed throughout the Footscray Shopping Centre, improving Safety by aiding Police to gather evidence and monitor the CBD in real-time. 2. Oversaw management restructuring creating a $700,000 per year saving. 3. Successfully advocated for the Footscray high school adjacent to Victoria University. 4. Relocated the Council works centre, reducing costs and 250 extra Hospital carparks. 5. Created the Pop-Up Park in Yarraville. Fitness enthusiast and former Co-owner of Renegade Fitness, keen supporter of healthy lifestyles. Managed Band and Food venues, worked for Human Services Victoria, Disability Services, 20 years Defence Service My objectives, best possible use of resources. By activating Councils Mitchell St Site, with the Womans Circus and Industrial Arts Centre, tendering the Ship Inn site as a rebuilt historical Inn on Maribyrnong St, Faster planning approvals, expanding the playground Improvement Plan to include Grimes Reserve and Heavenly Queen Temple area. Supporting live music, arts and festival promotion. With over 10 years' experience operating live music venues, I have personally seen the benefits of supporting Bands & Artists within the community and will continue to encourage more events for our community to enjoy.

I am Paul Nam Le, long-term Footscray resident, local business owner. CEO, Owner of Dragon Health & Fitness Gymnasium in Footscray, and Judge at the Boxing Board of Victoria. 12yrs+. I am passionate about wellbeing, dedicated to the local community. I help the Long-term unemployed to get back into the workplace with Gloves program every 2months. I am committed to helping youth, corporate & business people gain confidence and skills through sport. I want to help Maribyrnong residents have a better quality of life by creating safer places for everyone from children to senior citizens. I will create impactful policies, that will reduce Unemployment, crime rate, including vandalism, drive revenue for Council and local businesses. My vision is for Maribyrnong to become the sporting and cultural hub of the west, attracting large clubs, major events. Making our city vibrant & liveable, with increased opportunities for cosmopolitan shops, cafes, corporate businesses, sporting venues & events with up-market Bars & restaurants. I will tirelessly advocate to increase funding for local healthcare and education providers, aim to create new job opportunities for residents. I want to help foster a community where people are more health conscious, believe in themselves, stay positive and active

Hi, I’m Oskar. I’m running in this year’s council election as a candidate with Victorian Socialists because I believe we should live in a world where people are put before profit. Politicians have been ruling for the rich for too long. I want to see Maribyrnong council expand our green and public spaces and fight for affordable rents and public housing. I’m a Seddon local and have lived in the western suburbs for most of my life. I’m the Indigenous Representative on the Melbourne University Students’ Council and a member of the United Workers Union. I’ve been a student and community activist for many years. I have been part of campaigns fighting for the rights of Aboriginal people and in solidarity with the people of Palestine. Councils should be progressive bodies that fight for social justice. If elected, that’s what I’ll do.

I’ve been your Maribyrnong City Greens Councillor since 2020 and a long-term inner west local. I love our community and I’m passionate about ensuring that it’s a place where everyone can thrive. I have a proven track record of delivering for our community: making our streets safer for people who walk, scoot, and ride, including advocating for a safe bike lane on Summerhill Road; supporting our LGBTQIA+ community as Chair of the community advisory committee; preventing harm from gambling; protecting precious green and open space; acting on pollution issues, and leading Council to declare a health emergency. If re-elected, my priorities are to: 1) work towards making the Inner West a low emission zone to reduce pollution and health impacts; 2) work with traders, service providers, artists, and government to address issues in the Footscray CBD; 3) push the government to properly fund essential community services and infrastructure like libraries, bike and walking paths, green and open space, and sports and arts facilities; 4) support creative ways to engage meaningfully with the community. Please contact me at bernadette.thomas@vic.greens.org.au or visit https://www.facebook.com/people/Cr-Bernadette-Thomas/100063900914281/. Put our community first, vote [1] Bernadette Thomas for a passionate, honest, and progressive Council representative.

Many of us know Footscray is already a great place to live – but we also know it can be even better. There are problems in our community: Footscray’s urban centre has been neglected. There is a dire lack of tree coverage and a lack of biodiversity. And we need better access to council services. As a non-binary person, I was on a 2-year waitlist for gender affirming healthcare, and I know there are huge gaps in the availability of council services across the West. If elected, I will commit to the revitalisation of Footscray, plant more native trees and promote native biodiversity. I’ll make Maribyrnong a truly safe place for the Queer community and advocate for more gender affirming healthcare across the west. I will push for more affordable housing and an urban agriculture plan to establish more community gardens. I left home at 15, lived in social housing, and am now a local renter. I understand the importance of a strong community and the role council can play in creating one. For more information, please visit council.org.au/ari-casanova

I’m a parent, foster carer, PhD candidate and committed westie! My background is in urban design and architecture specialising in sustainable urban systems. I volunteer with numerous local organisations including BikeWest, Westside Cohousing and with advisory groups focused on transport infrastructure, urban greening, planning and climate action. We need councillors who’ll fight for our westie community, which is why, if elected as your Greens councillor, my priorities are to: 1) champion accountable and transparent consultation processes on council; 2) support active, green, sociable neighbourhoods; 3) tackle cost of living through affordable housing, access to affordable and sustainable energy and transport, and health and food security initiatives; 4) better bus, bike and walking options to support mobility choice, health and clean air; 5) push the government to properly fund essential community services and infrastructure like libraries, bike and walking paths, green and open space, and sports and arts facilities to support our community now and into the future. You can find out more at http://greens.org.au/elena-pereyra or reach out at elena.pereyra@vic.greens.org.au. Put our community first, vote [1] Elena Pereyra.

Hi, I’m Julien. I’m a Kingsville local running in this year’s council election with the Victorian Socialists because I believe our community’s well-being should come before profit. In the west, we have the worst air pollution in the city. Freight trucks on Somerville and Williamstown roads contaminate the air of homes, schools and childcare centres. Worse, there have been repeated industrial fires in nearby suburbs. Maribyrnong council, especially Yarraville, has the worst hospital admission rates for breathing problems. Young people are being admitted at almost triple the Australian average. We have to do something about this! If elected, I’ll prioritise preserving green spaces, like McIvor Reserve, and tackle air pollution by supporting community campaigns and advocating for low-emission zones, as per the Grattan Truck plan. Councils should fight for social and economic justice. If elected, I’ll fight for our community and the healthy environment we need and deserve.

Maribyrnong City Council needs stability. Only a strong united Council chamber lead by experienced councillors with a vision for our future, can get Maribyrnong City Council to deliver for our community. As a dedicated resident and seasoned leader, I bring 15 years of experience and three terms as Mayor to Maribyrnong City Council. I have a history and commitment to make this happen. It has been, hard work and my capacity to work with everyone on Council that has maintained our city’s finances and delivered great community outcomes. I have ensured that our community in Wattle Ward and the city generally is able to boasts quality services and community assets, including community centres, playgrounds, music festivals and sporting facilities. However, there is more work that needs to be done. Ours is a sort after suburb and I undertake to continue to deliver the same level of effort for Wattle Ward and make it a better place to live. I pledge to maintain this high level of service for our community while keeping spending and rates in check. For a stable, effective Council that works for you, vote 1, Michael Clarke.

I'm an Aboriginal man with mixed European/Asian heritage, an LGBTIQA+, Worker/Union and Solicitor/Legal and Human Rights Advocate, Differently Abled, Artist/Small-Business community member. I am a person focused on what Local Government can actually do to holistically help and improve the daily lives of all it’s residents, cost-effectively, realistically and practically. I want Maribyrnong Council, our Local Government, to do these things and foster optimum positive life impacts for all residents. I believe our Council should provide accessible services, facilities, events and activities that it’s residents need/want or would desire/use if there was the opportunity, that are free or are low cost alternatives. I want to encourage sustainable, innovative and positive aspirational goals for our Community Home and that are delivered on a timely basis, effectively and efficiently. I believe our Community Home can be a beacon of accessible creativity, enterprise, recreation and opportunities for all. My Community Priorities: 1. Resident Budget Conscious Fees 2. Resident Cost Savings initiatives 3. Inclusive and Diverse Local Public Services, Facilities and Amenities for all 4. Commitment to Local Arts, Recreational Green Spaces and Environment 5. Commitment to improve Learning, Entertainment and Cultural events, Hobbies and Sports. 6. Commitment to Innovation, Creative and Business/Enterprise Hubs.

As your Independent candidate for Wattle Ward, I will focus on what matters to you, rather than issues dictated by a political party. I have lived in our ward for 11 years, during which time I have campaigned for various important social and environmental justice issues. If elected, I’ll ensure your council focuses on providing a more sustainable, healthier, safer and fiscally responsible future, while delivering reliable essential services that include properly maintaining our ageing roads, footpaths and other important assets. I am committed to protecting our remaining open green space, for environmental and health and wellbeing reasons, and believe we should take a harder line on polluters, including handing out tougher penalties. Densification and congestion are issues I care deeply about, especially with huge housing developments already under way. I am determined to stop the Council spending too much money investigating grand projects that we can’t afford and are unlikely to attract external funding. I also believe we should make developers pay more to build in our municipality and require State and Federal governments to make higher contributions for projects that will benefit the entire economy. To learn more, please take a moment to visit my page: milesparnallgilbert.com