No, and I strongly believe that party politics have no place in local government.

2. What issues related to the health and wellbeing of Hilltops residents do you see as a priority and most in need of collaboration with local community groups/organisations/state or federal departments to achieve outcomes?

As a new candidate, I am learning quickly! In this area, I would need to ask the local groups what they need especially as mostly this falls in the state/federal realm. I know that Marg Roles is keen to enable HeadSpace to be available in our area and I would support that.

3. How do you see your role as a councillor contributing to the health and wellbeing of residents in the Hilltops LGA?

At a local level, we need to ensure that facilities continue to be available for recreation and that our public spaces and environments support positive wellbeing. We have some great public spaces such as the Boorowa River walk or Burrangong Creek path, and community areas available for gathering together. Enabling community groups that have ideas to develop facilities further, such as increased seating, may be possible.

Council and community need to have communication, in both directions, so that people are listened to and their needs considered when decisions are made. That way Council can respond if possible and keep our region a place we love to live!

4. Do you think it is important for Council to be kept informed about what social issues are affecting residents of Hilltops LGA?

Absolutely. Local government is about responding at a local level. That is why we need Councilors to be part of various community groups and for representatives of local groups to contact or meet with Councilors.

5. What is your perspective on the current Climate emergency and as a with Hilltops Council, what initiatives would you implement or support to ensure the Hilltops community is carbon neutral in as short a time as possible?

Hilltops Council needs to be proactive and taking increased positive steps to support our environment, from adding more shade trees to looking at new recycling/waste options. There are many councils who have already made changes and so we can see what is working elsewhere and make wise decisions. Being a new candidate, it will take a little time to see what would work in Hilltops, but I am keen to support initiatives in these areas. There are many resources available, and people in our community with much knowledge, that we can draw on to make careful choices. This is also an area receiving government funding and which can make economic sense as well, important in our current financial situation.

6. What is your understanding of the housing crisis in Hilltops at the moment? Is there a role for Council to alleviate this situation? If so what would it be?

This is a complicated area because of the many different needs and limitations. It will take me time to understand the legislative restrictions and if Council can have a role to alleviate the situation. Again, we need to keep talking and consulting with the community so that it is not just the loudest voice we hear, but all the voices.