Penrith City Council: Meet the candidates battling for council positions
Slashing bureaucratic red tape and unnecessary spending, fixing the roads and improving community safety are just some of the pledges made by Penrith Council hopefuls. Take a look at the prospective movers and shakers running in your ward.
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Parents, schoolteachers and retirees are just some of the candidates vying for Penrith City Council, with less than one month before residents head to polling booths across the state.
In Penrith, there are nine spots up for grabs with both new and familiar names and faces throwing their hats into the ring to makes moves in local government.
Take a look at the prospective movers and shakers running in your ward.
North Ward
John Thain, Labor
Councillor John Thain began his working life as a tradie before spending the bulk of his working life in the power transmission industry. Since then Cr Thain underwent a life change working for NDIS providers and now works for the NDIS Partners in the Community Program.
No stranger to local government, Cr Thain has served two terms as both mayor and deputy mayor, collecting vast experience in all aspects of council business, strategic and management plans, zonings and masterplanning.
Cr Thain can be credited as a driving force behind urban renewal in the area, playing a key part in the renewal of Cranebrook Shops, the all-weather little athletics track, Trinity Drive, Cranebrook skate park and upgrades to Werrington Lake.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
A key theme that is prevalent in North Ward and other wards is community safety, with late night anti-social behaviour and theft appearing to be on the rise.
If re-elected I will instigate that the safety committee meet in affected areas directly with the community for input at a time residents are able to attend.
From the feedback, council can work with organisations, levels of government and the police local area command for a strategy and plan for community safety.
Another issue relevant to the suburbs in North Ward is that of parking which council is exploring for a solution. In response to the need for pedestrian safety, council will provide a zebra crossing close to the train station for people to cross.
Do you support development in your area?
Council has been working on sustainable development and density. Greater density around train stations does make more sense and the new Metro line will provide opportunity for that to occur.
The state government has recognised the work that council has been undertaking before its release of the TODD program for affordable housing. This allows us to continue with our own masterplan and planning.
Council recognises that new development requires upgrades to infrastructure, water, electricity sewer, roads and parking, and needs to occur at the time of development and not lag.
This is particularly necessary in brownfield sites where older infrastructure will not cope with new density.
Ross Fowler OAM, Liberal
A veteran voice in local government, Cr Fowler has been on Penrith Council since 1991 with no intentions of stepping back anytime soon and has served several terms as Mayor in 1995-1996, 2013, 2014 and 2018-2020.
With sharp business acumen Cr Fowler was instrumental in securing the Whitewater venue for Penrith in the lead-up to the 2000 Olympics.
Cr Fowler is leading council’s aim to increase its property portfolio with the aim of reducing council’s future financial reliance on rates income.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
One of the major issues we have identified in our ward is the need to ensure that our growth is matched with the necessary infrastructure and community services. Penrith is a vibrant and growing community, and we want it to remain a place where people choose to live, raise a family, and work. To achieve this, it’s crucial that we continue to invest in infrastructure that enhances public amenities.
What have you found is a major issue in the Penrith LGA and how do you intend to address this as a councillor?
Our community has voiced key priorities: responsibly investing ratepayer funds in local sports facilities and parks; advocating for economic growth in Penrith; creating safe, enjoyable entertainment and hospitality options; and supporting working families with accessible preschool and childcare services and encouraging employment opportunities. We are committed to addressing these areas to enhance our neighbourhood and support all residents.
Do you support high density housing in your ward?
Penrith is a growing community and we want it to be a place where people choose to live, raise a family and go to work. As we grow, it’s important that we keep investing in infrastructure to match and that includes excellent community facilities that enhance public amenity. By managing council’s finances well, we can continue to invest in parks, sporting fields, walking paths and child care facilities that are enjoyed by ratepayers. We will support quality higher density housing providing there is easy access to public transport, preferably rail.
Amanda Cardwell, Independent
I’m a lifelong Western Sydney resident, married with two kids. After completing my HSC at St Marys, I’ve spent 14 years building a successful career in project management, focusing on efficient budget and schedule management.
I believe in the importance of a robust, independent council to make Penrith a safer and better place to live and work and would focus on balancing the immediate needs of our residents with long-term goals.
If elected I will donate 25 per cent of my first year’s net income as a councillor to charities supporting women, including those tackling domestic violence, empowerment, and gender equality.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
In North Ward, drainage and flooding are a major issue, and it is evident that the current council priorities do not align with our community’s needs. The recent decision by Labor and Liberal councillors to reject a motion to allocate $7.1 million from the sale of the
Rocla Project for urgent drainage works — despite its clear necessity — demonstrates a troubling focus on financial investments rather than addressing real, pressing problems.
Having heard numerous heartbreaking stories from residents and experiencing the impact of these issues first-hand, I could no longer remain on the sidelines. This compelled me to run as an independent candidate for Penrith North Ward in the upcoming election.
What have you found is a major issue in the Penrith LGA and how do you intend to address this as a councillor?
There are several major issues within Penrith City that need to be addressed including better parking solutions and options through optimising the use of existing spaces.
I’ll also push for increased funding to repair potholes and upgrade our roads.
Improving footpaths is another priority, I’ll support efforts to extend and enhance them to ensure they’re safe and well-connected
For crime prevention, I’ll support increased lighting, CCTV, and partnerships with NSW Police. I’ll push for more domestic violence support, reduced council rates and weekly red bin collections. Additionally, I’ll promote community involvement to ensure your voices are heard in decision-making and work to reduce financial waste.
Do you support high density housing in your ward?
I support a balanced housing approach with high, medium, and low-density options, ensuring infrastructure like roads and schools can manage the population increase. We must balance growth with preserving green spaces and recreational areas. Emphasising sustainability and integrating energy-efficient designs is key. Listening to residents’ concerns about density will help maintain a high quality of life in Penrith City.
Glenn Gardiner, Independent
Glenn, who lives in Londonderry with his wife and two children, was elected to Penrith Council in December 2021. With extensive experience in aged care risk management, he is also chairman of SEE Ability and actively involved in community activities including coaching sports teams and volunteering with the RFS.
Glenn prioritises quality roads, community parks, and a vibrant local economy, and he is passionate about flood management, representing Penrith Council on the Nepean-Hawkesbury Floodplain Committee.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how do you intend to tackle this as a councillor?
The major issue in North Ward is flooding risk due to neglected stormwater drain maintenance. An audit shows $7.1m is needed, but only $800K is allocated.
On July 22, I moved a motion to provide $7.1m in funding from the surplus funds realised from the sale of the Emu Plains Industrial site – only Sue Day and Kevin Crameri supported this motion and so it failed. My intention is to continue to advocate for this maintenance to occur and find alternate funding sources – I will not give up on this issue.
What have you found is a major issue in the Penrith LGA?
My key priorities are road maintenance, road safety improvements, stormwater improvements, sensible development and public Area maintenance.
Do you support high density housing in your ward?
I am opposed to quick and easy fixes to housing shortages, such as recent state government rezoning of areas to high density housing where consideration is not given to improve community amenity or infrastructure. High density housing can be functional and appropriate in the right conditions, such as where adequate open space and adequate infrastructure is provided.
Sensible and well thought out plans for managing development and population growth will determine our city’s liability for the future. I intend to ensure that all future developments enhance our city rather than reduce the quality of living for those already here.
Shafaq Jaffery, The Greens
Journalist and social worker Shafaq Jaffery will be the first Greens’ candidate to run in a local government election in Penrith since 2016. If successful, Ms Jaffery will be the second Greens councillor in Penrith local government history since Michelle Tormey was elected in 2012.
As a woman from a diverse background, Ms Jaffery says she brings a unique perspective and a strong commitment to representing her community’s values.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how do you intend to tackle this as a councillor?
Flooding can indeed have severe and long-lasting impacts on communities. Based on recent events, some of the major issues that North Ward faced after flooding include property damage, road cracks and potholes and closures.
What have you found is a major issue in the Penrith LGA and how do you intend to address this as a councillor?
I am highlighting some critical gaps in the planning and budgeting for Penrith’s transformation into a mega city. While Penrith City Council has allocated funds for various projects, including road upgrades and green spaces, it seems that large-scale mass transit initiatives and trunk road expansions are not receiving the attention they deserve.
The council’s budget for 2022-23 included significant funds for capital works, but the focus was more on local projects like park upgrades and employment precincts. The draft operational plan for 2024-25 also outlines various services and infrastructure projects, but mass transit programs like tunnels and Metro networks are not prominently featured.
There is a noticeable lack of large-scale mass transit projects connecting Penrith to other major cities and regions, which is crucial for future development to improve connectivity and support growth.
Progress on expanding trunk roads appears to be slow, hindering Penrith’s overall development and accessibility.
Do you support high density housing in your ward?
For Penrith LGA yes, but for North Ward no, as there are waterways and precious flora and fauna. I will raise a very important point about the environmental and infrastructural challenges that come with urban development. Balancing growth with the preservation of natural resources and ensuring adequate infrastructure is crucial. Before expanding with high-rise buildings, it’s important to ensure that the existing infrastructure can support the increased population
South Ward
Sue Day, Independent
A Penrith resident since 2002, Councillor Sue Day is dedicated to enhancing transport services and creating a connected, vibrant city. Cr Day has diplomas in business management, financial services, communications, accounting and 25 years in finance. She values quality childcare and volunteers with the Penrith City Children’s Services Co-operative. She also serves on the Resilience Committee and Schools Industry Partnership, advocating for better transport and infrastructure in Penrith.
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 South Ward is traffic congestion. As a councillor, I propose introducing a free shuttle bus in Penrith CBD to reduce reliance on private vehicles for short trips. This service would connect key locations like Penrith Station, Westfield Penrith, and High Street, easing traffic flow. I’ll also advocate for infrastructure upgrades to keep pace with growth and enhance local amenities, aiming to minimise long commutes and improve overall mobility.
What have you found is a major issue in the Penrith LGA (not just your ward) and how do you intend to address this as a councillor?
A significant issue facing Penrith Local Government Area (LGA) is balancing development with sustainability and liveability. As Penrith continues to grow, accommodating an additional 25,000 new dwellings by 2031, it is crucial to ensure that development does not compromise the region’s unique character and quality of life.
As a councillor, I will advocate for sustainable urban planning that integrates land use with transport options, reducing reliance on cars and promoting active transport. This approach addresses traffic congestion and enhances liveability by creating more connected and cohesive communities.
Do you support high-density housing in your ward?
As an advocate for integrated planning that combines land use with improved transport options, I can recognise the potential benefits of well-planned high-density housing. Such developments can contribute to vibrant, liveable places by providing diverse housing options and supporting local economies.
Vanessa Pollak, Libertarian Party (formerly Liberal Democrats)
Vanessa Pollak, a lifelong Western Sydney resident, lives in South Penrith with her family. With over two decades in the Penrith area, she values community involvement having served in various local roles and volunteered extensively. A qualified accountant, Vanessa co-ran a small property maintenance business. Concerned about government overreach and ‘woke’ ideologies, she aims to reduce rates, focus on community needs, and oppose smart cities initiatives.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how do you intend to tackle this as a councillor?
The role of a council is to provide services to our community.
Roads, rubbish and parks are the responsibility of the council, and I believe our council should do this better. The condition of our roads indicates that there are significant deficiencies in what is considered a priority.
Our vehicles are required to be roadworthy so why aren’t our roads car worthy. I want our council to refresh its focus and deliver outstanding services to ratepayers.
What have you found is a major issue in the Penrith LGA and how do you intend to address this as a councillor?
The current cost of living is now unsustainable for many. Every day I speak to individuals and businesses that are feeling the pressure to make ends meet. Canberra’s illogical economic policies have really hurt families and small businesses.
The council can provide relief to struggling families and businesses by slashing rates. It is time to review expenditure and take a chainsaw to unnecessary council spending.
Do you support high density housing in your ward?
I acknowledge we have a housing shortage, yet Penrith City has vast land areas ready to be
developed. Much of the delay in delivering housing to Penrith City is attributed to the council’s complicated bureaucratic red tape. I want to reduce the time frame on development planning to provide timely housing solutions.
Hollie McLean, Labor
Hollie is a dedicated candidate for Penrith South Ward, known for her unwavering commitment to equity, justice, and opportunity. Her career in safety within construction and heavy manufacturing, combined with her advocacy for disability rights, First Nations justice, women’s causes, and workers’ rights, underscores her deep community involvement. As a full-time working mother and neurodivergent individual residing in Glenmore Park, Hollie intimately understands local family challenges. Her active roles in the school Parents & Citizens Committee and as vice-president of the Australian Neurodivergent Parents Association highlight her engagement. She is driven to build an inclusive, equitable, and thriving community in Penrith.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how do you intend to tackle this as a councillor?
One issue that is raised with me consistently in South Ward is the way our green spaces are designed and the facilities available in them.
Whilst we do have more green spaces than some other urban areas, there are opportunities to make them more usable and magnetic for our local communities.
Residents have raised ideas like expanding the number and type of recreational facilities available, and provision of bathrooms in large areas far removed from other facilities.
As a councillor, I will work with residents to identify these opportunities and advocate for funding to improve our green spaces.
What have you found is a major issue in the Penrith LGA and how do you intend to address this as a councillor?
Penrith City residents are aware of the opportunities that the new airport and business precinct will bring to our area, and are vocal about the need to develop in a way that is sustainable and considers the needs of all.
The current term of council has seen a focus on ensuring infrastructure like water, electricity, sewerage, roads, and parking are included in new developments, and that they are in place before or at the same time as the development they support, not after. The next term of council will continue its strong advocacy in this area.
Do you support high-density housing in your ward?
I support the State Government’s Transport Oriented Development (TOD) plan for Penrith City, which includes acknowledgement of the work Council has been doing in increasing housing options in the area. The new Metro stations are a great opportunity to provide higher density and affordable housing. The area around St Mary’s station also holds potential for development along with the necessary upgrades to the infrastructure that is needed to support it.
East Ward
Due to recent events at NSW Liberal Party headquarters, blue candidates hoping to run for East Ward were not nominated in time and, with no other parties or independents put forward for East Ward, the Labor team was elected unopposed.
Todd Carney Labor
Leading the team is current serving Mayor Todd Carney, who prior to taking on the top job 12 months ago had been an East Ward councillor since 2016.
After starting his apprenticeship at the age of 16, Cr Carney worked as a heavy vehicle mechanic for 12 years and later as an electorate officer in the office of David Bradbury MP for six years. It was at this time Cr Carney’s passion for working for his community started.
Prior to being elected as mayor, he worked for a global crane manufacturer as their national service manager.
What have you found is a major issue in the Penrith LGA and how do you intend to address this as a councillor?
There is a lot happening over the next four years with the opening of the Western Sydney International Airport and the Metro which will provide a number of opportunities and challenges for our community. This is why it is critical that all members of the new council work together to maximise the opportunities and minimise the impacts.
A big focus for council needs to be creating employment opportunities, housing options for future generations and improvements to public amenity.
There are a lot of challenges the council will face, but I know my team is ready to meet these challenges head on.
Garion Thain, Labor
Also on Labor’s East Ward ticket is Cr Garion Thain, a fresh face who entered politics for the first time when he ran as Labor’s Badgerys Creek candidate in last year’s state election.
Cr Thain says he understands the challenges this time of change will bring with the advent of the new airport and looks forward to serving the city he grew up in, and starting his own family with his fiance.
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