Local, engaged and truly independent

I am standing for Wattletree Ward as an Independent candidate at the upcoming Council election.

I was first elected to Stonnington Council in 2020 (in what was known as South Ward) and have been committed to representing the community in every decision. It has been a great privilege to apply my professional skills, business acumen and community focus to local government and I am proud of my achievements during my time on Council.
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On a personal level, I have lived in Stonnington for 35 years. I grew up locally and attended a local kindergarten, primary and secondary school. In my youth I spent hours exploring the streets with my friends, working in local retail and hospitality businesses and spent time at the library, swimming pools, parks and gardens. My husband and I moved back to Stonnington 16 years ago to raise our children. They too have attended local kindergartens, primary and secondary schools and have been very active in local sporting clubs including netball, AFL, cricket and gymnastics to name a few. My parents and my in-laws all live in Stonnington which helps me appreciate the community needs across generations.
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I have always immersed myself in the local community.

I have volunteered at local sporting clubs, and was the President of Armadale Primary School for a number of years. In 2018 I was privileged to be awarded the Stonnington Citizen of the Year Arts/Education and the Higgins Community Award for my contribution to the Armadale Primary School.
 
My professional experience started as a management consultant with Accenture where I worked with large multi-nationals leading and managing global transformation projects. Over sixteen years I worked across a range of industries and businesses, solving complex problems and applying my commercial acumen to deliver continuous improvement and sustainable change. 
 
Fourteen years ago I began my transition into the community sector.

I am currently the Deputy Chair of Mental Health First Aid International and on the Board of Lifeline Direct which delivers national helpline and crisis services. Previously I was the Chair of  PANDA (Perinatal Depression and Anxiety Australia) and Emerge, an organisation which supports women and children fleeing family violence. I believe in governing with transparency, leading with integrity and working collaboratively with others which I can demonstrate throughout my career and during my time on Stonnington Council.
 
Community leadership is important to me, and I am deeply committed to supporting those who are most vulnerable. I have founded two separate scholarships for asylum seekers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders as when I believe in something, I step up and work hard.
 
I am truly independent and inclusive of all members of the community.

When making decisions I seek out different views and ensure that I am well informed, approaching each decision with an open mind. I am passionate about creating stronger communities, and working together with residents and local businesses to create a thriving environment where we genuinely engage and listen. 
 
I look forward to continuing to work with you to hear your voices and concerns.