2024 council elections: Meet the candidates for Camden Council
There are new and familiar names on the list of Camden Council hopefuls. Read their thoughts on local issues to help decide who gets your vote ahead of the upcoming election.
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The 2024 local council elections are almost upon us, with residents heading to polling booths across NSW next weekend.
In Sydney’s southwest, there are nine spots up for grabs at Camden Council with a number of candidates, new and returning, hoping to join the ranks for the next four years.
We have pulled together profiles on the running candidates to outline who they are, their priorities if elected, and their thoughts on high-density housing.
Camden Council is separated into three wards: North, Central and South. Find out which ward you belong to here.
Central Ward
Ashleigh Cagney - NSW Labor Party
Ashleigh Cagney has been a councillor since 2016, and served as Camden mayor during the last term. She has indicated she’s open to running in the position again but said it was a decision to be made by her “fellow councillors post-election”.
About me
I live in Currans Hill with my husband, John, and our four beautiful children. I hold a bachelor of law and diploma in business. I am passionate and involved in a number of sporting and community groups and am driven to make Camden the best place to live, work and play.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Camden?
If re-elected, my focus will be on ensuring services and facilities meet the needs of our growing community. I will continue to lobby other levels of government to demand our fair share of funding for critical infrastructure needs. I will respect the findings of our recent community satisfaction survey, which indicate that residents would like to see more community events and a greater focus on tree management and local roads.
Do you support high-density housing in Camden?
I strongly believe in the right type of housing in the most suitable locations brings better community outcomes. Camden does not have the current transport or other forms of infrastructure to justify high-density housing throughout Camden. Whilst we are doing our fair share of providing homes in light of this housing crisis we are facing, it’s important that we are seeing the right type of housing to suit the needs of our diverse community.
How will you address the lack of transport in the area and connectivity with the Western Sydney Airport?
During my tenure as mayor, I have seized every opportunity to list our community’s infrastructure requirements to both state and federal ministers to support and connect our local government area to the Western Sydney Airport. Without critical transport links like the North South Rail link, our residents will be better off using Sydney Airport. Without the transport connections to the new airport, our residents will be left with all the risks and no reward.
Koady Williams - NSW Labor party
Koady Williams is running as Ashleigh Cagney’s number two on the Labor ticket in Camden’s Central Ward.
About me
I was born and raised in Macarthur, and now call the Camden area home with my fiancee, local nurse Alicia. I hold a master of business administration and have just completed my bachelor of laws. I wish to bring new ideas and ways of thinking to Camden Council to ensure it is future fit and continues to be the best place it can be as we continue to grow. Attention can’t divert to the new shiny developments, all of Camden, new and old, must be centre stage if we are to grow sustainably and strongly as a community.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Camden?
There are definitely some growing pains in suburbs across the local government area, including congestion, road quality, and ensuring local infrastructure and amenities are fit for purpose. But, from conversations from doorknocking, cost-of-living relief, rate transparency, maintaining our great waste management program, and community engagement and event opportunities are front of mind for many residents.
Do you support high-density housing in Camden?
Continued smart development and the delivery of essential infrastructure like rail and rapid bus services to the airport and beyond may eventually pave the way for higher density housing within the local government area, but for now I think council should be focused on assessing appropriate density types against the growing needs of our community and current infrastructure capacity.
How will you address the lack of transport in the area and connectivity with the Western Sydney Airport?
If we are to continue growing and developing as a community, public transport must be a strategic priority. This will involve council led initiatives but also lobbying government and government bodies at all levels to make the appropriate level of noise to get Camden the attention it deserves.
Peter McLean - Independent
Peter McLean is an independent candidate and served as a councillor for Camden in the last term. He is leading the ticket for “Group A” in the Central Ward.
About me
I have strong local government experience and business qualifications to help a growing council and community. I will ensure everyone in our community benefits from a growing council and not just a select few. I want to ensure Camden Council is an independent council and not run by the political parties.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Camden?
Lack of state government infrastructure especially schools, public transport, hospitals and a train line. I will fight for a more open and transparent council which allows residents to address council at public meetings on any council issue. I will insist new council assets are fit for the future so we aren’t creating runaway expenses in the future. I want to ensure we have more trees because our suburbs need cooling due to one of the lowest tree canopy covers in Sydney.
We need road connection build now and not in seven years’ time like the Spring Farm Parkway. The first stage is open but doesn’t connect Spring Farm. The residents are rightly very disappointed and left scratching their heads in disbelief.
Do you support high-density housing in Camden?
Only in areas which are going to be supported with appropriate transport, school and health infrastructure, etc. In the short-term, this includes Leppington but could include other areas if we get a train line. Government can’t just insist on higher density and not be willing to build the necessary infrastructure.
How will you address the lack of transport in the area and with the Western Sydney Airport?
This is a major issue for local people. I have raised this many times at council and will continue to if elected. I have advocated to the state government for the urgent need for the Metro extension and will continue to. The metro can carry 20 times more people than a lane of traffic at one-fifth of the emissions and these are the facts from the Transport for NSW website. We simply need infrastructure now and not in 30 years’ time.
Ewelina Ellsmore - Shooters, Fishers and Farmers
Ewelina Ellsmore is running as a solo candidate for the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers in the Camden Council election. To vote for Ms Ellsmore, Central Ward voters will need to number candidates below the line.
About me
I am a long-time Camden resident, with 15 years of experience serving local families in community language education and performing arts event management. I speak three languages and hold qualifications in transdisciplinary problem-solving in political and social sciences.
My aim is to bring this experience to Camden Council, supporting local enterprise, strategic and sustainable development, and preserving Camden’s iconic way of life. Together, we can ensure Camden thrives while maintaining its charm and community spirit.
KEY FOCUS AREAS
Supporting local small businesses
To foster growth in our region, we must enhance business resilience and entrepreneurship. This includes promoting the production of fresh produce, which is well-regarded outside Camden. I plan to improve networking opportunities for small businesses and clients, creating a stronger economic network that sustains local growth and supports family businesses.
Services for young families and youth
With a growing population, it is essential to provide services for young families and youth. Programs should cater to various interests, promoting wellbeing and community engagement. We must develop initiatives across sports and arts, utilising our excellent sporting facilities. New programs that encourage outdoor activities like archery and fishing will help young people build resilience and prepare for the future.
Sustainable housing development
As Camden grows, sustainable housing development and infrastructure are crucial. We need to ensure that housing projects are accompanied by the necessary infrastructure, including roads, public transport, schools, and healthcare services. It is vital to maintain the liveability of our area through thoughtful development that meets community needs.
Enhancing local arts and culture
As a musician, I understand the importance of arts in fostering community spirit. Camden has the potential to nurture local talent and expand its cultural scene by bringing renowned performers to our area. This will enrich the experiences of residents and promote local artistic endeavours.
Preserving Camden’s rural character
Having lived in Camden for more than 20 years, I am inspired by its rich history and natural beauty. It is essential to protect our heritage and rural character as the area develops. This includes maintaining historical sites and promoting local agriculture, which is crucial to our cultural identity and tourism.
ADDRESSING KEY ISSUES
Housing growth and infrastructure
Camden is one of the fastest-growing regions in NSW. Effectively managing this growth is critical to ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace with new developments. We must advocate for funding from state and federal governments to support the necessary infrastructure improvements.
Transport challenges
Transport is a significant issue in Camden, with limited public transport options leading to congestion on major roads. We need to develop better traffic management strategies and push for investment in public transport to improve mobility for all residents. Working with state government colleagues, I will advocate for enhanced transport infrastructure.
Heritage preservation
Camden’s rich history must be preserved while allowing for modern development. We should maintain the historical charm of our town and support local businesses and agricultural producers. Protecting green spaces and agricultural heritage is vital for maintaining the character of our region.
Do you support high-density housing in Camden?
While I support housing development in Camden, it must align with the area’s existing character. High-density housing should be thoughtfully planned, considering the input of residents and ensuring it enhances liveability rather than detracts from it.
How will you address the lack of transport in the area and with the Western Sydney Airport?
Transport planning is complex but essential for Camden’s future, especially with the development of the Western Sydney Airport. I will work with local and state government to ensure that transport connections are developed to benefit Camden residents. The airport presents opportunities for jobs and connectivity, and we must prioritise safe access for residents and students.
Therese Fedeli - NSW Liberal Party
Therese Fedeli has been a councillor for 12 years, serving as deputy mayor during the last term. She was previously mayor from 2019 to 2023. Ms Fedeli is a Liberal Party candidate, and her team consists of the only Liberal candidates to make it into the local government elections across Camden and Campbelltown councils following the party’s paperwork bungle.
About me
Therese Fedeli has lived in Mount Annan for more than 30 years and is heavily involved in the Camden local area. She supports many multicultural groups and sports groups.
Ms Fedeli has a certificate in business administration and advocates for local small businesses. She is passionate about her community and wants to continue making Camden a great place to work and live.
Achievements for the community
- Camden animal shelter and community education hub and Camden community nursery;
- Camden Town Farm walkway and public art trail;
- Delivering Oran Park leisure centre;
- Leppington Station, adding additional 1000 car spots; and
- Continuation of upgrading all sports fields.
Priorities
- Maintaining and developing our new and established suburbs;
- Increasing disability access to public spaces;
- Listening, working and supporting our local business in the community;
- Liaising with state and federal government to ensure roads are upgraded to ease the traffic;
- Encouraging and supporting our volunteers. local sporting clubs and community groups;
- Advocate on behalf of residents to ensure that the police, fire and ambulance services grow with our growing community; and
- Ensuring our heritage is protected and enhanced.
Diana Zammit - NSW Liberal Party
Diana Zammit is running with Therese Fedeli as the second candidate on the ticket for”‘Group C”.
About me
Diana has lived in Mount Annan for more than 25 years. She has been a volunteer for more than 10 years and, in 2024, was awarded the Wests Group Macarthur Sports Volunteer of the Year for her decade of service. Diana also spends her time raising money for many local charity groups and represents local sporting clubs. With her passion for helping community groups and families, she would love to be a voice for the Camden community.
Salvatore Barone - NSW Liberal Party
Salvatore Barone is running as the third candidate on the Liberal Party team in the Central Ward.
About me
Sal is fortunate to call Camden home for many years. His three children go to school and participate in various sports in the local area. Sal works within the dynamic, evolving energy sector, where he additionally supports small local businesses. He is honoured to be given the opportunity to be the advocate for the people of Camden, and making sure it continues to be a great place to live.
North Ward
Abha Suri - Independent
Abha Suri is an independent candidate joining the race for a seat in Camden’s North Ward. She will be heading up “Group A” on the ballot paper.
About me
I’m an experienced university lecturer and Camden resident for more than 12 years, currently living with my family in Oran Park.
As an independent voice, I promise to advocate for sustainable growth, improved community safety, and inclusivity in Camden, ensuring our area thrives for everyone. I wish to be the independent voice of the community with no party agenda. My message to my Camden North Ward electors is “make your voice heard” by giving a chance to Abha Suri as an independent to be your genuine representation in council decisions.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Camden?
Camden is a rapidly growing area with several key issues that are shaping its development and community life. Some of the main issues include urban growth and development as Camden is experiencing significant population growth, which brings challenges like urban sprawl, pressure on infrastructure, and the need for sustainable development. Balancing growth with the preservation of green spaces and the area’s rural character is a major concern. Another issue is infrastructure and transport as the population grows, there is increasing demand for improved infrastructure, particularly in transport. Traffic congestion, the need for better public transport options, and road maintenance are pressing issues. Ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with population growth is crucial. Additionally, the issue of community services and facilities as there is a need for more community services including healthcare, education, safety of residents, needs of the elderly and the people with disabilities and of any other disadvantaged community. The demand for schools, medical centres, and community hubs is increasing, and there’s a need to ensure these services are accessible to all residents.
Do you support high-density housing in Camden?
I support a balanced approach to housing in Camden. While high-density housing can help address affordability and accommodate growth, it’s essential that it’s thoughtfully planned to preserve Camden’s unique character, maintain green spaces, and ensure infrastructure and services are equipped to handle increased demand.
How will you address the lack of transport in the area and with the Western Sydney Airport?
To address the lack of transport in Camden, I will advocate for improved public transportation options, including better bus services and potential rail connections to key hubs like the Western Sydney Airport. I will also push for strategic road upgrades and better traffic management to ease congestion, ensuring Camden residents have efficient and accessible transport links that keep pace with the region’s growth and the demands of the new airport.
Eliza Rahman - NSW Labor Party
Eliza Rahman is a first-time council hopeful and the lead candidate for the NSW Labor Party group in the North Ward. As a team of two, with fellow Labor candidate Molly Quinnell, voters will need to number the candidates below the line under “Group B”.
About me
Eliza Rahman is a voice for change for North Ward residents, and offers a wealth of not for profit and public sector experience with her candidacy. A mother, experienced public servant, Oran Park resident, and champion of many a community group, Eliza brings a unique perspective and the ability to connect with diverse individuals. If elected, she promises to prioritise residents’ voices, sustainable growth, families, and small businesses as a proactive councillor advocating for positive change.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Camden?
From my conversations with residents, access to affordable housing, cost of living, traffic congestion, and local health services are high on the list of issues of Camden residents in the North Ward.
Priorities
- Getting safe children crossing for schools like Leppington Public School;
- Finding a permanent solution for the community on Anthony Rd, the causeway in Catherine Field, which is impacted by regular flooding;
- Increase awareness and enhance support services for domestic violence issues including funding emergency shelter house, counselling services and legal aid programs;
- Focus on street and bus stop lights, potholes, road, footpath and park safety, and sun and rain sheds;
- Get more traffic signals, speed humps, speed limit signs, adequate bins, drinking water facilities and lanes for pedestrians/cyclists; and
- Proceed with creating community function halls with bigger capacities, more recreational activities for families, senior citizens and the youth.
Do you support high-density housing in Camden?
I support appropriate density planning based on community needs. We need to focus on delivering affordable housing with appropriate density that matches local infrastructure.
How will you address the lack of transport in the area and with the Western Sydney Airport?
I will work with all levels of government to advocate improved transport options, including bus and rail from the airport to our community.
Vince Ferreri - Libertarian Party NSW
Vince Ferreri is running for the council as a NSW Libertarian party member in Camden’s North Ward, under “Group C”. Mr Ferreri did not respond to questions from this publication.
About me
Vince Ferreri is a dedicated 44-year-old small business owner who runs a successful painting and decorating company and operates a food truck on the weekends and at special events, which has served the community for many years.
With unwavering support from his wife, Stefanie, Vince is running for council to ensure that their three young children experience the same opportunities and freedoms they enjoyed growing up. He advocates for freedom from woke indoctrination and opposes ratepayer-funded drag queen story sessions.
Priorities
Vince Ferreri is concerned about the trend of council decisions to close public fields and cancel weekend sports at the first sign of rain. He pledges to work diligently to keep fields open and ensure children can continue playing.
Mr Ferreri is committed to lowering council rates, providing much-needed relief to ratepayers and young families. Above all, he is passionate about preserving our freedoms and protecting the innocence of childhood, allowing kids to simply be kids.
South Ward
Eva Campbell - Independent
About me
Eva Campbell was a Camden councillor last term, and has previously served as a mayor and deputy mayor during her 29 years as an independent councillor. Ms Campbell is committed to working with her community and believes party politics have
/no place in local councils.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Camden?
Camden, as the fastest growing local government area in the state, faces a raft of problems: overdevelopment without necessary supporting infrastructure, particularly with public transport, lack of local employment opportunities, the destruction of valuable agricultural land.
Do you support high-density housing in Camden?
High-density development, to curtail Sydney’s costly sprawl, is acceptable only where adequate public transport and employment hubs exist. The Camden area meets none of the criteria necessary for the consideration of high-density housing.
How will you address the lack of transport in the area and with the Western Sydney Airport?
You must be delusional if you are suggesting local government - it’s not called “local” for no reason - can do anything except advocate with state and federal governments, on behalf of the communities represented, to address the lack of transport in the area. The majority of councillors, from the party-political breed, haven’t stood up against their “Macquarie Street mates” or party-donor developers in this area since 2002!
Camden also faces acute air quality problems, which will only be exacerbated by the opening of the second Sydney airport at Badgerys Creek, and unacceptable noise impacts from the proposed 24/7 operation at this airport.
Cindy Cagney - Independent
Cindy Cagney served on Camden Council during the last term and has a long-term history working as a councillor across both Camden and Campbelltown Council. Ms Cagney was previously affiliated with the Labor Party but has since become an independent candidate. She did not respond to questions from this publication.
About me
As a councillor, I have been able to represent the people of Camden on council for several years, and have a track record of speaking up for all residents of Camden. I am a former Narellan Primary and Camden High school student and absolutely love Camden.
I worked with our community to save palliative care at Camden hospital, and I will continue to watch over it. As the chair of the Camden Heritage Committee, my passion is to see our towns, heritage, history, lifestyle and environment protected for future generations. I have supported both of our recent mayors, Ashleigh and Therese, and will continue to support leaders who value Camden’s future over politics. I’m not a member of any political party and I’m seeking your support to continue to work for you, on Camden Council for the next four years.
Cindy has served as councillor with 16 years of experience and is committed to Camden’s future. She has worked to protect Camden’s town, with a track record of putting community needs at the centre of her decision-making and advocating for residents. Ms Cagney is a chairperson of the Camden heritage subcommittee and a mental health professional who teaches at TAFE.
Rose Sicari - Libertarian Party NSW
Rose Sicari is representing the NSW Libertarian Party in the South Ward and has previously run in state and federal elections.
Ms Sicari did not respond to questions from this publication, and is running under “Group C” on the ballot paper.
About me
Rose Sicari was born in Australia and has lived in the Camden area for more than 35 years. In that time, between raising a family, working as a childcare educator and running numerous small family businesses, Rose has eagerly donated her time volunteering in her church and at various schools.
She has gained valuable insight into politics and the needs of the community after running in recent state and federal elections. Ms Sicari seeks to serve the community with a clear vision that is deeply rooted in policy.
Key priorities
Rose Sicari is concerned with overbearing government measures, seeks to eliminate “woke” idealogical agendas from council operations, and opposes the implementation of “smart cities”. Additionally, with the rise in the cost of living placing enormous strain on young Australians, council must look at cutting costs where possible, slashing rates for residents and strongly supports property rights with a favourable stance on development applications to help ease the housing crisis.
Renee Sillato - Independent
Renee Sillato is an independent candidate running for a seat in Camden’s South Ward, and will be located below the line on the ballot paper as a solo candidate.
About me
I’ve owned a small business in Camden for more than 10 years and am running for local government as an advocate for the community and small businesses in our area.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Camden?
Small businesses, particularly in the hospitality and retail sectors, are in a time of crisis and if we want to see our small town remain a unique space led by independent businesses, we need to improve the framework for them to thrive. Our community wants to see a more vibrant streetscape with fewer empty shops and a richer hospitality industry but systemic issues like inadequate parking, limited public transport, and a lack of tourism hold back the potential of the area.
I’m running for council to bring a fresh perspective defined by my experience in small business along with my close ties with the community to inform decision-making.
Do you support high-density housing in Camden?
To your point about high-density housing, I think the lack of high-density housing is absolutely a factor holding back business growth, as without affordable housing we lack a local workforce for service based industries like hospitality and retail. Unfortunately it has become an unaffordable place for young people especially to live. I believe it is an issue that requires attention, whilst still respecting the heritage character of the town.
How will you address the lack of transport in the area and with the Western Sydney Airport?
In terms of transport, I absolutely support the need to extend the Sydney train lines further into the Camden Council area. Given the Western Sydney Airport and the rapid growth in the area, improved public transport is a huge priority for commuters and also to improve tourism in the area. Buses are under-utilised in the area but express services and improved timetables could be implemented to incentivise the uptake of public transport.
NSW LABOR PARTY
Damien Quinnell
Damien Quinnell is the lead candidate on Labor’s ticket for the South Ward, and is married to Camden’s state MP Sally Quinnell.
Followed by Mr Quinnell on the docket is Deniz Sabuncuoglu, a Camden local and army veteran. Mr Sabuncuoglu describes himself as a social justice advocate, small business-owner and volunteer secretary of the Camden Tigers Football Club.
They are running together under “Group A” on the ballot paper. Mr Quinnell and Mr Sabuncuoglu have not responded to questions from this publication.
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