I’ve been a vocal advocate for our communities for a decade undertaking various roles, including the former President of the Maylands Ratepayers and Residents Association (MRRA), a volunteer in various community groups, I led local community campaigns to push the city to take positive action on substantial matters, a board member at the Maylands Peninsula Primary School, and a local councillor (in my second term) and the Deputy Mayor.
I’ve seen at first hand some of the problems with the ways our City and Council operate, as well as opportunities to improve City performance, policies and practices.
As a local councillor, I’ve been working hard to influence change and use my seat around the decision makers’ table to promote a more sustainable local government and community. I’m pleased that there are many positive outcomes that I have already delivered for our communities, while working in collaboration with residents and local community groups, and that they have already made a big impact in our city in many ways. But there are still big challenges in front of us and so much more that needs to be done, and I will continue pushing our city forward.
As your re-elected councillor, I will continue to advocate for:
- Our Local Government being focused on efficiency and delivery of basic services.
- Responsible decision making and expenditure, to keep our rates low and under control.
- More trees (to shade our footpaths) and sustainability improvements.
- More upgrades and activation of our town centres, to support local businesses and increase safety.
- Safer footpaths and pedestrian crossings, especially around local hubs (e.g. schools, shops) to improve walkability.
- And much more.
Transparency:
Unfortunately, existing election rules don’t require candidates (in any tiers of government) to disclose all conflict of interests before being elected. Many times, we hear about our representatives’ various interests only incidentally, when a specific issue is brought to public attention. By then it’s too late for people to change their votes.
Being transparent with you, as your elected member, is a key principle for me:
• As an independent Councillor, I have always worked with anyone who is keen to see good outcomes for our community.
• I have not sought assistance from other politicians in my campaigns. I strongly believe that State politics should stay out of local governments.
• I’m not connected to any business, and I have not received any financial donations from any source. Any donations received by candidates are recorded on the Electoral Gift Register on the city’s website.
• I have a law degree and a Masters of Environment.
• I’m a senior public servant working for a State Government department where I deal with the development of legislation and policy. I have more than 18 years of experience working for governmental agencies in WA, Victoria and abroad, including the Departments of Health, Local Government and Communities, Environment and Primary Industries, WA Police, and army service.
• I live in Maylands with my family. My kids attend the local school.
• I am currently a member of the MRRA and the Maylands Historical and Peninsula Association. I am not involved in the management of any community group or community Facebook page/group.
