2024 council elections: Candidates for Blacktown City Council profiled
Several council candidates have revealed their priorities after putting their hats in the ring for Blacktown City Council ahead of the upcoming election. Meet the people vying to represent you.
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The 2024 local election is right around the corner, with less than one month before voters descend on polling booths across the state to choose who will be their next councillors and mayor.
In Blacktown, a number of currently sitting councillors have put their hats in the ring for re-election, among a number of newcomers and other community figures.
The Blacktown Advocate has reached out to each candidate running for Blacktown council and asked to provide a short introduction as well as how they will represent the people of Blacktown.
Voters in the Blacktown LGA do not vote on a mayoral candidate; this person will be chosen through a vote by sitting councillors after the election.
Most wards have a group of candidates from each party, with one lead candidate per group.
Not all candidates from each group responded to questions from the Advocate, but any additional further responses will be updated below.
Ward 1 - Vineyard, Grantham Farm, Riverstone, Rouse Hill, Tallawong, The Ponds, Kellyville Ridge, Stanhope Gardens, Parklea, Acacia Gardens, Quakers Hill
Labor
Mondider (Moninderjit) Singh is the lead candidate for the Labor party in ward 1, and is running alongside Ahalya Rentala and Jordan Hedi. Dr Singh is running for re-election for that would be his third term as a councillor since he was elected in 2016, while Ms Rentala is a notable figure for a number of social projects in the Blacktown community.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward and how do you intend to tackle this as councillor?
As we know, Blacktown council is a growth council with more than $15,000 new people adding each year to Blacktown.
The majority of these people move to the Northwest Growth Centre comprising Schofields, Riverstone and Marsden Park areas.
My focus is always on better community infrastructure for the community for which we raise strong advocacy with state and federal governments.
What have you found is a major issue in the Blacktown LGA (not just your ward) and how do you intend to address this as a councillor?
As already stated, lack of community infrastructure in growth areas is the major advocacy area for us. Providing a missing Metro link from Tallawong to St Marys should be taken up as a matter of priority.
Do you support high-density housing in your ward?
Yes, we are happy to take our share for a higher population but it must be provided at the right place along with the right community infrastructure.
Ward 2 - Glenwood, Kings Langley, Lalor Park, Seven Hills, Marayong, Quakers Hill, Kings Park, Blacktown
Liberal
Mohit Kumar is the lead Liberal candidate for ward 2, and is running alongside Damian Milne and Cara Middleton. Mr Kumar is the chief police prosecutor at Blacktown Local Court and was a previously candidate for the Liberal Party in the 2023 state election.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward and how do you intend to tackle this as councillor?
A major issue facing the residents in Ward 2 is the neglect of basic critical infrastructure such as roads, parks, public amenities and the long promised green bins that will no doubt benefit every household.
The Labor state government has made grandiose housing announcements, telling our community that approximately 50,000 new residents will be coming – which is more than the current population of Strathfield or Burwood LGAs – in their proposed Kellyville and Bella Vista precinct plan. This half-baked and ill-considered plan will not only adversely impact the residents of Glenwood and surrounding suburbs with multiple high-rises, but it will also impact commuters already having to fight through congested transport corridors in their daily commutes through roads such as Old Windsor Road and Sunnyholt Road. The Minns Labor Government has again failed to consult and listen to the local community or provide the funding for such infrastructure and community amenities.
If elected to council, I will be supporting and giving a strong voice to the residents, calling for the NSW Government to provide a detailed and fully funded infrastructure plan. I will be their voice on council, fighting for them to make sure this community remains vibrant, safe and harmonious.
Ward 3 - Blacktown, Doonside, Arndell Park, Huntingwood, Prospect, Toongabbie, Seven Hills
Liberal
Pradeep Pathi is the lead Liberal candidate for ward 3, running alongside Richard McDonald and Jacob Crews. Mr Pathi previously ran as the Liberal candidate in the key seat of Greenway during the 2022 federal election.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how do you intend to tackle this as a councillor?
In Ward 3, the Labor-controlled council has secretly sold significant council-owned assets in the CBD without tender or public scrutiny. These sales, now revealed, show that after a seven-and-a-half-year lease, the council will have no proceeds left to fund essential buildings for its operations. This mismanagement may force the council to sell additional public assets and take on substantial debt to deliver new civic offices and associated infrastructure, turning us from owners into renters.
If the Liberal Party team wins the council, we will ensure that no further land deals occur in secret or without public oversight, and commission an independent legal and financial review to secure the best outcomes for Blacktown residents. We will also commit to realising the vision of a vibrant, modern Blacktown CBD.
Our goal is to safeguard council assets and deliver a sustainable future for Blacktown.
What have you found is a major issue in the Blacktown LGA (not just your ward) and how do you intend to address this as a councillor?
Key issues impacting the Blacktown LGA include:
- Traffic congestion: Current traffic congestion is unsustainable and requires a plan to upgrade key roads.
- Children’s playgrounds: There’s a pressing need for more playgrounds; and I will make identifying and developing suitable locations a priority.
- Traffic flow: Some of the traffic flow in my ward could be better managed, and I propose a thorough review of some of the roundabouts that may need to be replaced with traffic signals to improve flow and safety.
- Council amenities costs: The high cost of hiring council amenities needs reassessment to make it more competitive and accessible for residents.
- Illegal parking (commercial trucks): Addressing illegal parking requires stricter enforcement and designated areas, especially for commercial trucks.
- Overcrowded parking in Blacktown CBD: Overcrowded parking in and around Blacktown CBD is problematic, and solutions like expanded facilities or residential permits are needed.
Do you support high-density housing in your ward?
High-density housing must be developed in tandem with the necessary infrastructure to accommodate the influx of new residents. This includes planning for new or expanded schools to manage the increase in student populations, and ensuring sufficient medical and childcare facilities. Adequate parking spaces and playgrounds are also vital to maintaining residents’ quality of life. Additionally, a stronger police presence will be needed to ensure community safety and efficient transport services to ease daily commutes and reduce congestion. Finally, extra council staff must be hired to manage increased rubbish removal and maintain cleanliness. High-density housing is tied to our population growth, but it will only work if these critical infrastructure improvements are made to support the community’s wellbeing.
Ward 4 - Colebee, Nirimba Fields, Dean Park, Glendenning, Doonside, Woodcroft, Mount Druitt, Rooty Hill, Minchinbury, Eastern Creek
Liberal
Peter Camilleri is the lead candidate for the Liberal party in Ward 4, running alongside Cassandra Mullard and Fiel Santos. Mr Camilleri is running for re-election for what would be his third term since being elected to council in 2016.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how do you intend to tackle this as a councillor?
A significant issue in my ward is the redevelopment of Mt Druitt Dawson mall precinct and the Rooty Hill town centre. As a sitting councillor, I have been instrumental in utilising my skills and experience in large-scale development and infrastructure planning to challenge designs and functionality. As a local resident myself, I will continue to advocate for the best deal for the residents of these areas and surrounds. These projects have the potential to change the area now and into the future.
What have you found is a major issue in the Blacktown LGA (not just your ward) and how do you intend to address this as a councillor?
The current Labor council has been selling large private assets in confidential meetings to feed spending without public scrutiny. These deals have seen this council transformed from owners to renters. If the Liberal team is elected and given a chance to get our council budget back on track, we will conduct a large scale financial and legal review to ensure that the residents of Blacktown age getting the best deal. Land sales will be conducted in an open and transparent manner, and we will deliver a vibrant and modern Blacktown CBD.
Do you support high-density housing in your ward?
Whilst high-density housing may be appropriate in some areas, the Labor state government cannot push to have poorly thought out high density residential apartments just anywhere it wants. High-density housing needs to be carefully considered, including movement of people, the availability of transport services, roads, parks and rubbish removal to name but a few. High-density housing is a unique form of development that needs to have critical infrastructure before proposals are constructed. In Blacktown we currently have local Labor, state Labor and federal Labor governments and they have all jointly failed to deliver the much needed infrastructure or housing to address the crisis affecting our communities. Development application numbers are down. Construction numbers are down. Construction costs have blown out by a whopping 30 per cent average, and under this regime more than 3000 construction companies have gone into administration.
Independent
Maywand Hanfi is the only independent candidate running for ward 4. Mr Hanfi, from Mount Druitt, is the chief executive of My Ability Care - a disability support organisation.
Mr Hanfi said he also had “extensive experience” in criminal justice, having helped many young people with dual diagnoses lead normal lives after incarceration.
He said he was passionate about employee engagement and how leaders could lead teams better than the standard hierarchical system.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward and how do you intend to tackle it as councillor
- Affordable housing: Addressing the need for affordable housing options for residents facing housing affordability challenges.
- Infrastructure development: Improving and expanding infrastructure such as roads, public transportation, and utilities to support a growing population.
- Community services. Ensuring access to essential services like healthcare, education, and social support programs for all residents.
- Economic development: Stimulating economic growth, job creation, and supporting local businesses to boost the local economy.
If I were a councillor in Blacktown Council, I would tackle these issues by:
- Community engagement: Engaging with residents, community groups, and businesses to understand their concerns and priorities through town hall meetings, surveys, and community consultations.
- Collaboration: Working with other councillors, government agencies, community organisations, and stakeholders to develop comprehensive strategies and initiatives to address the identified issues.
- Advocacy: Advocating for funding, resources, and policy changes at the local and state levels to support initiatives that address the major issues in the ward.
What have you found is a major issue in the Blacktown LGA (not just your ward) and how do you intend to adress this as a councillor?
Addressing deep-rooted issues of discrimination and lack of acceptance towards people with disabilities, especially within the community and law enforcement, requires a multifaceted approach and a commitment to promoting inclusivity, empathy, and respect.
The key steps are to promote education and awareness in the community about disabilities. This can be done through workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to foster understanding, empathy, and acceptance among residents.
Advocacy for inclusive policies: As a councillor, you can advocate for the development and implementation of inclusive policies that support people with disabilities in the community. This could include accessibility improvements in public spaces, housing accommodations, employment opportunities, and social services.
Engagement with disability advocacy groups: Collaborating with disability advocacy groups and organisations can provide valuable insights and guidance on how to address the specific needs and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in the community. Building partnerships with these groups can help in designing effective solutions and initiatives.
Training for local authorities: Providing training for local authorities, including police officers, on disability awareness, sensitivity, and appropriate responses to situations involving people with disabilities can help prevent discrimination and ensure fair treatment for all residents.
Creating support networks: Establishing support networks and programs for people with disabilities in the Hills area can offer a sense of community, resources, and assistance to help individuals navigate challenges and access the services they need.
Promoting inclusion and diversity: Emphasising the values of inclusion, diversity, and respect within the community can create a more welcoming and supportive environment for people with disabilities and foster a culture of acceptance and understanding.
Do you support high-density housing?
Affordable housing is a common issue in many urban areas, including Blacktown Council. I can work to support initiatives that increase affordable housing options, advocate for housing affordability policies, and collaborate with stakeholders to address housing challenges in the community.
Ward 5 - Vineyard, Richards, Angus, Schofields, Nirimba Fields, Marsden Park, Nirimba Fields, Melonba, Shanes Park, Willmot, Ropes Crossing, Tregear, Lethbridge Park, Emerton, Whalan, Blackett, Mount Druitt, Hebersham, Plumpton, Oakhurst, Hassall Grove
Labor
Brad Bunting is the lead Labor candidate for ward 5, alongside Talia Amituanai and Neeraj Duggal.
Mr Bunting is the current mayor of Blacktown, elected following the death of predecessor Tony Bleasdale, and is running for re-election in what would be his third term since being elected in 2016. He served as deputy mayor from 2022 until he took over the top job in May 2024.
He is a local to his ward, having grown up in Tregear, and still lives there with his wife and children.
I have many connections to the local sporting community, including being a life member of Tallawong Park Little Athletics Club, secretary of the Blacktown City and District Cricket Association, and coaching at Mount Druitt Town Rangers Football Club.
I believe our Labor-led council has started a transformation of the city with infrastructure projects like the Blacktown Exercise and Sports Technology Hub (BEST) and the Blacktown Rehoming Animals Centre (BARC). We are committed to upgrading our libraries, swimming pools and arts centre. We are improving our events like the Australia Day concert and Medieval Fayre. We will introduce a garden and food waste (FOGO) bin in 2025.
We are advocating to the state and federal government for the extension of the Metro from Tallawong to St Marys.
We are working with the state government to provide more housing that works with the local area and comes with the appropriate infrastructure like schools, roads and playing spaces.
Liberal
Jugandeep Singh is the lead Liberal candidate for ward 5, running alongside Waqir Nasar and Jigishaben Patel. Mr Singh previously ran as the Liberal candidate for the seat of Chifley, in Western Sydney, in the 2022 federal election.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how do you intend to tackle this as a councillor?
A major issue in Ward 5 is the lack of infrastructure and services keeping pace with the growing population. As the community continues to expand, the government’s infrastructure program is not keeping up and residents are experiencing increased traffic congestion, longer commute times, and pressure on local amenities such as parks, schools, and healthcare facilities.
On traffic and transport, I will advocate for improved public transport options and better road infrastructure to ease congestion. I will improve the council’s community engagement, by establishing a regular dialogue with residents to ensure that their concerns are heard and addressed.
This could involve setting up a community advisory board or holding regular town hall meetings. I will work towards ensuring that new developments are accompanied by adequate community services and facilities. This includes advocating for more funding for schools, parks, and healthcare centres.
What have you found is a major issue in the Blacktown LGA (not just your ward) and how do you intend to address this as a councillor?
A significant issue across the entire Blacktown local government area is the challenge of balancing development with environmental sustainability. With rapid urbanisation, there is a growing need to protect green spaces and ensure that development is sustainable and in harmony with the natural environment.
I will advocate for development projects that include green spaces and are built with sustainability in mind. Push for policies that require new developments to adhere to environmental standards that protect local flora and fauna.
I will work with local groups and residents to ensure that development plans reflect the community’s desire for sustainable growth. This could involve workshops, public consultations, and collaborative planning sessions.
I will promote the adoption of innovative technologies and practices in new developments, such as solar energy, water recycling, and waste reduction strategies.
Do you support high-density housing in your ward?
High-density can be a solution, but it needs to be implemented thoughtfully and in a way that benefits the entire community.
High-density housing projects need to be a part of a comprehensive plan that includes adequate infrastructure, green spaces, and community services. It is crucial that these developments do not negatively impact the quality of life for existing residents.
We should look at mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, creating vibrant communities where people can live, work, and play.
Importantly, we should ensure that any high-density housing proposals are developed in consultation with the community, taking into account their concerns about traffic, parking, and the preservation of local character.
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