Stonnington City Council election candidates

Thank you for considering me as your councillor. I am a co-owner of a small wine bar off Chapel Street and a project management professional. Running a small business in Stonnington has given me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities our community faces. A vote for me ensures Stonnington Council work tirelessly to foster a safe, vibrant and sustainable community for all of us. My key priorities include: Keeping costs down - I will work to freeze rates and reduce costs for residents including renters. We need to maintain free parking on our main roads and maintain off street parking for residents. Protecting the Environment - I will advocate for environmentally responsible planning and open spaces such as updating our parks and playgrounds. Support Local Business: Let's support our local businesses to thrive by lowering licensing and Council costs so they are able to provide residents with good value services. Better Services for All - I will ensure that the Council provides better services for families and pet owners including regular cleaning and better recycling services. Community Wellbeing and Safety - I will work to protect our community and ensure a safe and positive space for all including improved street lighting.

Hi, I’m Clayton. I’m running as a candidate with Victorian Socialists because I want to help build a fair and equal society. Everyone deserves access to high quality, affordable housing, well-funded public healthcare and ample green space. Stonnington residents need leaders who put their interests before those of greedy landlords and big business. I’m a South Yarra local. I work in retail as a kitchen expert and I’m a member of the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA). Politicians are increasingly selling off land to property developers who build for profit, not for human need. An inflationary crisis is pushing workers and the poor to cut down on basic goods, while the rich continue to accumulate enormous wealth. I’ve been an activist for years, campaigning around many progressive causes, including the fight to oppose Israel’s war on Gaza. I know how to stand firmly against inequality and bigotry.

I’m an experienced Mayor, Councillor and manager of a local government planning department. I’m also an experienced board director (Monash University, Sydney Road Street Party, Queen Victoria Women’s Centre) and GAICD. I’m ready to hit the ground running fighting for a sustainable, diverse and creative South Yarra. My husband and I own and live in an apartment on Darling Street. South Yarra is a great place to live – and I want to work with our community to make it even better. As your Councillor, I will prioritise: 1. A South Yarra where everyone feels safe; 2. Protecting our distinctive neighbourhood character and heritage; 3. Cleaning up our footpaths from dumped rubbish and construction disruptions; 4. Thriving Chapel Street and Toorak Road precincts; 5. A city designed for happy, healthy pets; 6. Supporting creative industries and artists; 7. Facilities, green open spaces and services that bring community together; 8. A fair, transparent approach to statutory planning. The State is introducing some of the most significant planning and population reforms in a generation. For an experienced voice ready to stand up for South Yarra residents and ratepayers on day one, Vote 1 Dr Meghan Hopper for Como Ward. Contact me: meghan.b.hopper@gmail.com / 0421807303.

I live and work in Toorak and have been raising my family in Stonnington for the past ten years. I am actively involved in the community and am a passionate volunteer. I am running for Council as Stonnington needs a greater emphasis on balancing the needs of environmental care and maintenance of community assets with responsible financial management. As a previous director of ASX Listed Graincorp and Grain Growers Limited , and a graduate of the AICD , I bring the financial and commercial skills that are needed. Balance sheet analysis over 6 years of total debt and current assets shows a net movement of negative $79 million. While debt may have been incurred to deliver long term projects , going forward Councillors need to set a very clear direction for the financials. As a Councillor, I would expect to see a comprehensive set of monthly financials and to have regular discussions focused on the responsible and sustainable spending of rate payers funds. Many in the community tell me they want clean amenities and streets, but they do not want rates increased or the introduction of paid street parking. Visit www.spencermillear.com for more information. Vote 1 for Spencer for a strong voice.

I’m a researcher, science educator, and renter. As a proud South Yarra local, I love living here, but I’ve seen our community get hit hard by the cost of living and housing crises. I’m running as the Greens-endorsed candidate for Como Ward because I believe council has an important role to play in tackling this unsustainable rise in the cost of living and building a vibrant local neighbourhood. That’s why, if elected as your councillor, I’ll prioritise: [1] championing affordable housing, building better quality developments, and cracking down on short stay accommodation; [2] expanding crucial services like maternal health, community childcare, disability support, libraries, sporting facilities, and playgrounds; [3] investing in essential infrastructure, like safe bike lanes, restoring our roads and footpaths, and better access to public transport, including a second entrance to South Yarra station; and [4] improving our parks and green spaces, to provide more places for people and local wildlife. To learn more, you can contact me anytime on 0433 335 084, reach out at hamish.taylor@vic.greens.org.au, or follow me on Instagram @HamishForComo. Vote [1] Hamish Taylor for a better future for Stonnington.

As a Prahran resident, living in Greville ward my whole life, I am seeking your support for re-election as your Councillor. First elected to Council in 2002, I have had the privilege of serving four terms as Mayor and three terms as Deputy Mayor. During this time, I have worked tirelessly to deliver outcomes for the Prahran and Windsor communities. Recent achievements include the award winning Prahran Square, Greville Street public realm upgrade, revamped Prahran Skatepark, Prahran Library masterplan, Prahran Pool refurbishment, Windsor Siding revitalisation, new pocket parks and implementation of environmentally sustainable practices. If elected, I will continue to oppose inappropriate development, unnecessary rate increases and introduction of parking meters. I will continue to passionately support heritage protection, climate action initiatives, beautification of our streets, enhancement of our parks and purchase of land for more parks, effective delivery of core services including street cleaning, graffiti removal, drainage, landscaping and community safety initiatives. I am truly independent – no political affiliations. To support my commitment to make Prahran and Windsor even better, vote [1] Melina Sehr. Please number all boxes for your vote to be valid. If you would like to speak with me, please call 0411402345 or email melinasehr@gmail.com.

Having lived in the City of Stonnington for some 34 of the past 36 years I’ve been in Australia, I believe it’s the best urban city in Victoria. However, that can all change if the left and greens are voted in, look at how other councils have deteriorated into an anarchic state of political correctness and wokeism, which can happen here, unless you make a stand and vote for me, it’s that simple. Seeing how council has spent our money, it’s clear that we’re not getting fair value for it, by funding frivolous projects with zero net benefit. This has to stop. The current Council Plan wants to change our behaviour, implementing changes that border on dystopian, read it and you’ll see why. One aspect that has to change is traffic management, which is a job that must be returned to the adults and doesn’t include any more concessions for cyclists, ebikes until they learn to obey the law, no riding through red lights or one-way streets the wrong way. If you vote for the same people you’ll get the same result. It’s time for fresh blood and a new approach that supports the majority. Get more information here https://vote4me.au

As your current Deputy Mayor and Greens-Endorsed Candidate for Greville Ward on Stonnington Council, my vision is for a progressive Council that reflects our community's values. I achieved significant positive change this term and with more to do, I seek your vote. Having lived locally for 27 years, I cherish our diverse neighbourhoods, tree-lined streets, and vibrant cultural hubs. Residents want more say in Council decisions, with addressing local business challenges and protecting our local environment against climate change key concerns. I’m committed to community-led engagement, respect, integrity, and transparency. Our city's growth should not come at the expense of safety, green spaces, or neighbourhood character. Together, we can build a community that cares for the planet and each other. My priorities are: 1) Creating a greener city through sustainable building design and open spaces. 2) Investing in people by protecting services. 3) Revitalizing Chapel Street by focusing on the basics, while planning for a better future. 4) Enhancing connections, celebrating diversity and bringing joy to our streets. I am ready to represent our community, ensuring decisions are made in-line with your hopes and expectations. Contact: mike.scott@vic.greens.org.au or 0409931182. Vote [1] Mike Scott for a true community representative on Council.

Daughter of hardworking immigrant parents who ran small family businesses, have been an army reservist and foster carer to a badly abused, blind dog. An owner-builder of my Windsor home, and a senior manager with broad range of skills. My background family values diverse experiences have equipped me for community service, to fight for what matters. Have lived in Windsor for over 4 decades and care deeply about revitalising Greville Ward. Standing as an independent with no political affiliations, I hope to be your voice on: Community infrastructure – more trees, greenery, on leash and off leash dog parks – advocate for sensible town planning, including parking fight against over-development prioritising heritage preservation and resident amenity – clean, well-maintained streets with Windsor footpaths brought to same standard as Armadale Toorak – safety - better street lighting CCTV police presence to prevent escalating crime and anti-social behaviour. Developing Activity precinct – introduce strategy regarding vacant shops – control number of liquor licenses – ensure correct mix of businesses. Focused strategy to allocate spending to essentials that benefit our most vulnerable and maximum number of ratepayers. Vote 1 Susan Louey. Vote 2 Melina Sehr, a proven and strong Greville Ward advocate. Important: number all boxes so your vote counts!

www.alanmenadue.com

Hi, I'm Alison. For the last 17 years I have lived in and operated my small business in Stonnington's Greville Ward, including some time at Prahran Market. Through my experience, I've developed a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced not just by small businesses, but also my local community. I’m committed to advocating for policies that will make it easier for independent, local small businesses to thrive with the support of the local community and the Council. For example, retaining on street, free but time limited parking, particularly on Chapel Street and our local shopping strips. As a genuinely Independent candidate, I can work with anyone across the political spectrum. I'll be able to vote with my conscience and in the interests of the community. Acting with honesty, integrity and transparency are very important to me and this is how I will approach all my responsibilities as a councillor should I be elected. A new, independent face on council.

Council needs a fresh face. I am 44, married with two small children and live in Armadale. I was born and educated in Stonnington. I am a career fire fighter with 8 years of service. I have no political affiliations and am not a member of any pressure group. I am a true independent. Our residential precincts and valuable heritage areas must be preserved and protected from over development. Businesses must be encouraged and fostered to ensure their viability and employment opportunities. Residents will be encouraged to shop local. Prahran Market must be revitalised. I do not support paid parking meters in commercial shopping areas. Council must focus on cleaning up Chapel Street and working with agencies to support the homeless; improving waste collection and cleanliness of commercial areas and partnering with the government and Police to improve public safety in our streets. I will improve consultation with residents, Councillors and Council departments. The secrecy must stop. I support a review of Council services, including waste management and recycling so Council gets value for money. Your support would be greatly appreciated. Vote 1 Paul Francazio, Vote 2 Melina Sehr. Make sure you number each box on your ballot paper.

Stonnington deserves a competent council that listens, acts, and delivers real solutions. For too long, Council has been operating in a self-congratulating echo chamber, which is disconnected from the needs of its residents. Instead of working with the community, it has prioritised unnecessary policies and processes that create more problems than they solve. Overspending and cost blow outs on trophy projects, obstruction, saying “no”, changing the names of holidays and implementing half-baked regulations that are hard to follow and fail to address basic community concerns. I’m running for council because I believe we need a fresh approach - one that gets back to basics. As a Liberal Party member, I am focussed on council delivering liberal values which start with strong financial management and cutting burdensome red tape. I am committed to listening, transparency, collaboration, and simplifying processes to make life easier for residents. As a father of two children, I want to make our community a better, safer place to live, restoring a focus on essential services, asset management and creating an inclusive environment for all. It is time for a Council that is accessible and responsible and acts with integrity, intelligence, and a focus on what truly matters.

My name is Claudio Bevilacqua. I have lived in Stonnington since 1979, supporting the local community. My priorities are to make council accountable to its community. To deliver on core services and ensure Council is not politicised. To have greater consultation with the community especially when expenditure is a key consideration. Ensure roads are maintained, cleaned and safe to drive on. To address the financial wastage that has occured over the last 2 terms where $120 million has been spent on 2 non performing projects costing residents $10 million a year. To support small businesses by removing unnecessary costs and improving parking facilities. To upgrade sporting facilities including catering for girls and women's needs. To review Stonnington animal welfare program, ensuring community standards are maintained. Assist schools by listening and drivng change to improve children's experience, especially around education programs catering for social media, alcohol and drugs. To better engage local emergency support services so that our community is kept safe. I believe I am well equiped for the task given my professional background in Risk, Economics and Banking and am commited to core standards of Council Watch. I sincerely thank you for your consideration. Claudio Bevilacqua

My name is Joel Iglicki, a dedicated resident of this beautiful area. I am passionate about restoring our council to its former glory and ensuring it thrives for years to come. If elected, I will focus on three critical areas: rates, cleanliness, and roads. I want to see the Hedgeley Dene Ward become the most pristine in all of Victoria—a place we can all take pride in. Accountability in our council’s expenditure is crucial, and I’m committed to ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely and transparently. Our elderly community holds a special place in my heart. I will work tirelessly to ensure they are considered and cared for in all our decisions. I love Stonnington and I'm committed that together, we can create a better future for our community.

Why vote for me? I’d like to think it’s because I have proven experience as an effective councillor and I genuinely care about our local environment. Having lived in Malvern East for 42 years, raised our family here, I remain passionate about the importance of local government and its role in the lives of the community. During my previous time on council, I represented and advised thousands of constituents with their various concerns: often involving heritage, planning, parking and traffic issues, while pursuing good governance and fiscal responsibility within the council. As a former mayor, I know prudent, co-operative decision-making is imperative for councils. But there are challenges ahead, as the state government continues to erode local government’s planning powers which will adversely impact upon our neighbourhood. As a a pragmatist, I will not make promises I cannot fulfil, but will listen to constituents and do my utmost to ensure that concerns are heard, and acted upon where possible. As codirector of a public relations and communications company, I believe it is essential to engage with the community in a clear, open and transparent manner and, given the opportunity, will continue to do so.

As a Councillor for 12 years, including 3 years as your Mayor, I have worked hard to deliver outcomes for the Malvern Valley community. Stonnington is an incredible place to live, work and raise a family, however many families and small businesses are doing it tough right now. To support our community, I helped find savings within Council to keep rates amongst the lowest in Victoria, whilst ensuring that services continue to be delivered at a high standard. I continue to say 'no' to the introduction of parking meters and I voted against the introduction of a new business tax. With your support we have been able to upgrade the Malvern Valley shops on Chadstone Road, open the Stonnington Sports Centre, bring back diving at the Harold Holt Swim Centre, purchase 9 Scott Grove to create a new 4,000sqm park and begin transforming the Gardiners Creek trail. If re-elected, I will keep fighting inappropriate development. I will continue to support heritage, climate action and community infrastructure whilst keeping rates low. Vote [1] Jami Klisaris and remember to number all the boxes for your vote to be valid. If you would like to speak with me, call 0420 301 067 or email jami.klisaris@gmail.com.

Hello. I am Councillor Joe Gianfriddo and I am honoured to be the current Mayor. I am dedicated to making Stonnington a great place to live, work and play. This means improving roads, footpaths, libraries, parks, sporting facilities, cleanliness and services to the community. In a cost-of-living crisis, as an experienced Chief Financial Officer, I am focused on making Council work harder than ever with your money to deliver value and put downward pressure on your rates bill. In my time on Council, we have made Council more transparent and focused on local issues but there is much more to do. If you re-elect me, I will always put residents and businesses first, I will ensure your rates are used responsibly by providing excellent local services, more green space and I will fight for you when it comes to State and Federal Government funding. As an independent, I have excellent relationships across the political spectrum, I work with everyone. Together we can champion a better Stonnington, delivering sustainable housing development, cost effective organisational change, reasonable fees and charges, better children’s playgrounds, more green space, services for families, responsible decisions and a Council that always listens to you. Thank you.

I’m a motivated, empathetic, long-standing local businessman, allied health professional, and a happily married family man, with a lovely grandchild and 2 dogs. I was raised by my caring, widowed mother and grandmother and have built a life of happiness and success, whilst always giving back to the community. I’ve served as a councillor twice previously. I’ve been on a range of boards and committees and am also a qualified Civil Celebrant. I’m involved in community affairs, Rotary and the Freemasons, sporting clubs and the theatre. I’ve served as a physiotherapist and podiatrist for a number of professional sports teams. My professions require people skills and commitment. I’m also a hands-on volunteer for numerous community and welfare organisations and have been nominated for Australian of the Year. I will work tirelessly to care for the health, safety, and wellbeing of residents, and ensure green spaces and roads are maintained and upgraded. I will review further development applications and address serious parking problems. I want to make Stonnington a safe and healthy place to live, and to maintain the heritage and beauty of its parks and buildings and focus on social engagement, and sense of community. I'm here to serve.

My name is Samantha Choudhury. I am a proud Prahran local, urban planner and mum of twins. I am passionate about creating walkable, liveable and high quality inner city neighbourhoods that respect heritage values. If you vote for me priorities will be: 1) Making our streets safe and clean for families and children to walk and ride to school and to the local shops 2) Support for our shopping strips especially Chapel St, Hawksburn Village and High St- we have some of the best mainstreets in Melbourne and I want to ensure that we celebrate, enhance and improve their amenity to support local 3) Protect and enhance our iconic parks and gardens like Victoria Gardens and Lumley Park. I want to keep our open spaces dog friendly, safe and enjoyable for all users particularly as dog ownership and our population increases 4) Support for sustainable and active transport options as well as maintaining access for local road users 5) Advocate for good design standards and balance any new development whilst respecting heritage. As the city grows I want to ensure we enhance its features and retain what makes it special. Email me at sama4orrongward@gmail.com to get in touch.

Hi, I'm Arkie, an artist, casual hospitality worker, and renter. I've been so lucky to call the beautiful Stonnington my home for the last 5 years. But we’re all struggling with the skyrocketing cost-of-living and rental/housing crises – we need our council to work harder for our community. If elected as your Greens councillor, I’ll prioritise: [1] Lead local climate action by helping Council source renewable energy, changing the Council fleet to electric vehicles, bringing down your bills through solar bulk-buying and working with government to improve public transport and get cars off the road; [2] support genuinely affordable housing, by pushing for human-scale developments that are sustainable, climate-appropriate and support our growing and diverse community. Push for property developers to build a minimum 30% public and genuinely affordable housing in new developments; [3] investing in safe walking and cycling infrastructure like separated bike lanes and safer pedestrian crossings; and [4] support thriving arts and culture, by backing more funding for art, artists and art organisations, and make sure we have more spaces for art in urban development decisions. You can find out more information at https://greens.org.au/vic/person/arkie-paten or reach out at arkie.paten@vic.greens.org.au. Put our community first by voting [1] Arkie Paten.

Hey, neighbour! I'm Mitch - a local solicitor, housing activist, musician, and renter. As your Greens councillor, I will preserve and enhance what makes our South Yarra community so vibrant and livable, and I will ensure that sustainability, inclusivity, and social justice are at the heart of our council’s decisions. I have a first-hand understanding of the challenges faced by many in our community, especially renters, young workers and families, and those struggling with the rising cost of living. My life's experience drives my commitment to fight for affordable housing, improve public services, and ensure that all voices in South Yarra are heard and valued. My key priorities include: (1) Advocating for affordable housing and renters’ rights; (2) Enhancing our public spaces and local amenities; (3) Promoting sustainable development and local green initiatives; and (4) Strengthening community engagement and support networks for those in need. I can't wait to utilise my skills, experience, and dedication to make a positive impact for you and our community on Council. You can learn more about my plan at greens.org.au/vic/person/mitch-fuller or ask me a question at mitchell.fuller@vic.greens.org.au. Vote [1] Mitch Fuller for a fair, progressive voice for South Yarra on Stonnington council.

My name’s Julie McLean and I want to see South Yarra thrive again. I want to see booming businesses, connected communities, and streets and parks that are safe – day and night. That’s why I’m standing to be your South Yarra Ward voice in the Stonnington Council 2024 elections. I’ve lived in South Yarra for 16 years with my husband and son. I know and love this community. It’s saddened me to see Toorak Road and Chapel Street go backwards in recent years – with businesses closing on what should be a vibrant shopping precinct. It doesn’t have to be like this. More can be done to support homeless people, renters, home and small business owners. What council needs is real leadership – cutting spending on unnecessary projects, instituting financial management, and refocusing on the community. Vote for me if you want to bring South Yarra back to its vibrant heyday and feel safe on our streets and in our parks at any time of the day or night. I’d love to hear from you and invite you to contact me via email at juliemcleanforsouthyarraward@gmail.com or mobile 04 0933 2420. I ask for your support and to Vote 1 – Julie McLean.

Why 'Vote 1' Kate Hely? I am driven to serve our vibrant community. I have been your Councillor for the past 4 years, including as Mayor in 2020. I am a Strategy Director for iconic Australian brands, plus have an MBA and an architecture degree. So I’m uniquely skilled to make positive change. I’m a genuine independent and I've delivered results: Prahran Skate Park, Thomas Oval Dog Park, Toorak Park upgrades, piloting extended library hours, introducing a value-for-money program, and driving sustainability. I challenge inappropriate developments, instead supporting high-quality, climate-responsive design that celebrates our heritage and neighbourhood character. I fight for local businesses, reintroducing a marketing program to support Toorak Rd South Yarra and Chapel Street. I've served as President of Brookville Kindergarten and we’re raising our three young boys here. So I’m deeply engaged in our diverse community. These experiences qualify me to tackle our ongoing critical issues. Including Chapel Street's future, the community-led evolution of Prahran Market, ensuring appropriate development, initiatives for safer, well-maintained streets, and improving green spaces and climate resilience. For a welcoming community we're all proud to call home 'Vote 1' Kate Hely. katehely.com, katehelysouthyarra@gmail.com, 0420 564 069, @katehelystonnington

I am a 36 year resident and dedicated advocate in Toorak Ward.With 8 years of commitment as a councillor,I focus your rates on local enhancements ,steering clear of global political entanglements.My leadership has driven the transformation of Toorak Village and the renovation of Toorak park sports ground,directly enhancing our community's amenities. I am unwavering in my fight against inappropriate developments ensuring Toorak maintains its prestigious heritage and grandeur.I have also been pivotal in bringing back the word Christmas to our holiday decorations ,restoring a sense of tradition and celebration.In my quest for transparency and accountability within the council,I have championed the initiatives that allow you,the residents to ask questions and make statements during council meetings.Your voices are heard and council decisions are transparent with all votes recorded individually.My background as the first Telstra Business Woman of the Year in Victoria,coupled with my comprehensive education in business and governance ,empowers me to meticulously scrutinise and influence the council budget and priorities.Based on your feedback to my survey I will continue to prioritise greening our city,improving footpaths,roads,waste management and enhancing our parks and gardens Vote 1 Marcia Griffin for a clean, vibrant, safe Toorak for all.

Liberal Party Member. They Waste, You Pay. My priorities to deliver for you are 1. Returning Council to its core business 2. Introducing sound financial management 3. Improving our parks and playgrounds 4. Have common sense parking. Our current councillors have racked up debt, now totalling over 53% of rates revenue, which every year requires the rates from 2,105 homes to pay the interest. Instead of better services or lower rates we have debt and waste. Council needs to focus on its core business, not overseas conflicts and not renaming holidays. We need to refocus council before it’s too late and we are left with only ruin. We need to protect our amenity and the liveability of our beautiful Stonnington. I love calling Toorak home, and as a young father I understand the need to protect our amenity. Professionally, I worked in Treasury, then was an adviser to the Tasmanian Premier, before attending Melbourne Business School on a scholarship. Following this I worked in tech companies and now run a company that helps parents find great and safe adventures to do with their children. We deserve a brighter future. I will fight for our brighter future.

My name is David Segal and I have lived all my 70 years in Stonnington. As a Libertarian I believe in being fiscally conservative and socially progressive. Council owns over 120 properties and land valued at over $2.5 billion yet council debt has blown out and rates keep increasing. Council needs to unlock value from these assets and improve basic services, rubbish collection, roads maintenance, recreation facilities , whilst streamlining approval processes for residents wanting to improve their property.My two boys were educated in Armadale, I had early education at Spring Rd primary and secondary education on the perimeter at Scotch College. My three sisters all reside in Stonnington.I have been a JNF collector in Toorak and a volunteer for C care providing meals and groceries for public housing tenants in Prahran. I want Council to lower rates and improve services . I want Council to be transparent serving the community , looking after seniors and those in need. Stonnington has always been my home and I’m committed to making it a better place. I pledge to never vote for a rate increase because you deserve a council that respects your hard-earned money.

My name is Lloyd Bickerton and I am running for the Toorak Ward of the Stonnington Council. Liberal party member. Deliver sensible spending to the council. Improve our parks and playgrounds Support sensible development in our city. The commonsense approach on council has gone, we need to bring back the service based nature to the community. The council is to serve the community and help its residents, not dismiss their concerns. We need to refocus the council on protecting our amenities and the livability of Stonnington. We need to ensure development in our city supports the aesthetics of our community and our way of life. Our amenities and parks are a vital part of our beautiful suburb, the councils wastage and continued high spending on projects puts this at risk. I have run a successful equipment finance company for 30 years and in that time have supported many great community and health projects across Australia in Federal, State and local government bodies. I will proudly bring this expertise to the council to rein in wasteful projects and to ensure our council has the means to support our way of life. Vote 1 Bickerton, 2 Humphries.

Vote 1 - Peter Hammond, (Member Liberal Party of Australia) We must maintain Stonnington with its beautiful parks and gardens, Gardiners` Creek Kooyongkoot, Diverse communities, sporting culture, vibrant business life, establishing an Economic Development office, preserving our quality of life, liveability of our environment, cutting rates. Council should seek out land for new parks and green spaces, and enhance our parks with features such bike trails, family and pet friendly amenities. We need more parking, especially at our railway stations. I am a member of the Liberal Party of Australia, a long term resident of Stonnington, small businesses owner in international trade with 28 countries over 40 years. A trained electro mechanical engineer, a former commissioned officer RAAOC (Logistics) Australian Army Reserve (ARES) 3OCTU, NCO Infantry 46RI, Commando FFA-10. A father of two adult sons, I am engaged in a range of community organisations, school committees, veterans and multicultural groups. I humbly urge you to give your vote to me, 1 Hammond Peter.

As your Stonnington councillor since 2020, I’m standing for re-election so I can continue to work for a fairer, more sustainable and accessible Stonnington. I’m a Stonnington-born IT professional, Greens member, and Malvern resident, and I’m passionate about delivering outcomes for our community. As your councillor, I’ve supported Stonnington’s first Climate Emergency Action Plan, building critical sports and community infrastructure like the Stonnington Sports Centre, new all-abilities playgrounds and pockets parks, and upgrades to the Harold Holt Swim Centre. I’m seeking your support to continue working for an innovative, sustainable Stonnington that plans for the future while protecting our parks and neighbourhoods. If re-elected, my priorities are to: lead smart planning decisions that create a greener, more liveable community with genuinely affordable housing; invest in community services like health, libraries and local arts, support upgrades to footpaths and street lighting, and prioritise disability access for all residents; and continue Stonnington’s Climate Emergency Action Plan and Waste Strategy. You can find more information at http://greens.org.au/polly-morgan or reach out at polly.morgan@vic.greens.org.au or 0490 402 597. Put Stonnington first, vote [1] Polly Morgan.

Voting for Jamie will mean advocating for lower rates, reducing planning red tape, safer roads and footpaths, and a focus on open spaces and practical environmental solutions. Transparency, free community speech and community access to council will be a priority. A strong voice for Stonnington, reinvigorating its potential after many years of financial mismanagement. As a management consultant (BSc, MS) with executive level experience in complex environmental and infrastructure projects, I understand how to plan and build better communities, support local economies while protecting the environment and enhancing our parks. As a previous Victorian councillor (elected in 2020), my unique skillset will be an asset to Stonnington. I'll effectively engage with state and federal governments to secure more funding and create new opportunities to solve local problems. Away from work, I enjoy Stonnington's many offerings that create our enviable community and culture, and I cherish spending time with my fiancé and three dogs at home in the garden. Stonnington, as a community leader, requires strong, polite, well engaged councillors to ensure we reach our potential. I will work hard every day, underpinned by my responsible economics values, to help Stonnington enhance its liveability and create a safe place for all.

I am an Australian of Chinese descent, married to a husband of European heritage and we have two daughters and a dog. My diverse background allows me to connect with a broad range of community members, and I have consistently advocated for improved resident conditions and rights. I am running for council with a focus on addressing resident needs, enhancing amenities, ensuring safety, and managing our rates and taxes effectively. As a qualified accountant, I am committed to ensuring that every dollar spent delivers tangible benefits to our community. My policies prioritize the needs of residents and the responsible use of resources. I support town planning that safeguards our heritage, promotes green spaces, and prevents negative impacts on resident amenities. I oppose overdevelopment. Safe streets and clean, well maintained environments are essential. I advocate for appropriate CCTV in high risk areas to enhance safety. To curb anti-social behavior, I propose limiting the number of liquor licenses. I will support businesses that positively contribute to our community and discourage those that do not. My goal is to ensure that our rates and taxes effectively benefit all residents. Remember to vote [1] Tammy Lidano and [2] Steve Stefanopoulos

My name is Kerrie Nasser, and I am proud to be a candidate for Wattletree in the Stonnington Council elections. With a Bachelor of Business (Management), a Diploma in Event Management, and decades of experience in our family’s hospitality businesses, I have a strong grasp of business and community needs. As a Stonnington resident for 30 years, I am dedicated to enhancing local amenities for all. You may know me from my Instagram account, ‘Stonnington Dogs,’ which I started to advocate for a dog-friendly environment in Stonnington. Through this platform, I have built a community of 5,500 pet lovers and successfully challenged a by-law that restricted dog walkers. If elected, I will focus on upgrading local amenities, including the Glenferrie Road shopping precinct, prioritising road repairs, and enhancing services for pet owners. I am dedicated to a safer community with better lighting, increased resident engagement, and a sensible approach to environmental protection. I’m known for my straightforward approach, integrity, and collaborative spirit. I will bring these values to the Council to ensure transparent decision-making and effective initiatives that genuinely benefit residents. I am excited about the opportunity to serve as your Councillor and work toward a better future for Stonnington.

Steve’s commitment to the community was highlighted when he was awarded a Queens Birthday Honour in 2022 for his countless hours of volunteer time with numerous organisations. Steve is passionate about heritage and has championed the protection of thousands of properties. Steve's knowledge of Stonnington is unrivalled. As a lifelong resident, Steve is committed to ensuring council services such as waste collection, maintenance of our parks, footpaths and roads; and the provision of community services are delivered to a higher standard. During his time as Mayor (2017 to 2020), Steve implemented a philosophy of continuous improvement across everything Council is legislated to undertake. Performance reviews are vital in driving efficiencies, thus ensuring council services the community, and doesn’t step into realms outside its remit. Steve will ensure rates are kept low. Steve Chairs and is a Member of a number of government and private Governing Boards, demonstrating his leadership skills, expertise in governance, and knowledge of responsible fiscal spending during our tough economic times. The cost of living has hit us all hard, and Steve is committed to ensure responsible spending to improve service delivery and infrastructure spending on vital community assets. Vote 1 Steve Stefanopoulos OAM. s_stefanoppoulos@optus.net.com.au / 0418 546 103

As a proud resident of Stonnington for 35 years, and Councillor for the past 4, it has been a privilege to work with the community to deliver positive economic, social, cultural and environmental outcomes. A true independent, I have a track record in developing strategies and policies based on evidence, and making balanced decisions which represent the diverse views of the community. I am passionate about creating stronger communities as demonstrated by my various leadership roles (Deputy Chair of Mental Health First Aid, Board Member of Lifeline Direct, Chair of PANDA, President of Armadale Primary School). Combined with my professional skills gained as a management consultant at multinational organisations, I am committed to achieving real change. I have worked tirelessly to support people without a strong voice and value the important role that our local shopping centres and community organisations play in creating a vibrant and inclusive community. I will continue to oppose inappropriate development, protect neighbourhood character and support action on climate change. I will ensure responsible spending including sufficient investment in our roads, footpaths, parks and community facilities. To learn more, please visit www.nickibatagol.com or phone 0451038944. Vote 1 for Nicki Batagol to support a community minded independent.

Hi, I’m Allyssa. I’m running for council as a Victorian Socialists candidate because I believe a more sustainable, equitable and just society is possible. I’ve been a resident of Malvern East for three years. As a renter I know the troubles tenants face – from rising cost of living to dealing with greedy landlords. I’ve been a student activist fighting for refugee rights and climate justice. I’ve attended and organised protests against climate inaction by the Liberal and Labor parties. As all young people know, the planet cannot wait. Neither can refugees. Hundreds wait on temporary visas, living in limbo with no access to welfare or aid from our government. Our representatives should fight for all our futures. If elected, I’ll fight for yours.