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2024 council elections: Candidates for City of Canterbury-Bankstown Council profiled

With less than a week before the 2024 local government elections on September 14, meet the candidates vying for your vote.

NSW Liberal Party missing nomination deadline a ‘cluster mess of the highest order’

With less than a week before the 2024 local government elections on September 14, residents are gearing up to head to polling booths across the state.

There are 15 spots up for grabs on the City of Canterbury-Bankstown Council and a number of candidates, new and returning, are throwing their hats into the ring.

We have reached out to the candidates to understand who they are, what they stand for and why they are running for election.

BANKSTOWN WARD

Bilal El-Hayek — Labor

Current mayor Bilal El-Hayek. Picture: Robert Pozo / AAP
Current mayor Bilal El-Hayek. Picture: Robert Pozo / AAP

What’s the biggest issue facing Bankstown Ward?

It is unquestionable the biggest issue, or should I say challenge, are the very exciting changes that are happening in the very heart of my ward.

The Bankstown CBD is on the cusp of major transformation that will elevate it as one of Sydney’s major centres.

Our Bankstown Masterplan, which will provide 12,000 new homes by increasing height limits in the centre and provide thousands of jobs for locals has been given the green light by the NSW Planning Department. The masterplan is just one of the pieces of the jigsaw.

Other major projects in the CBD which are intertwined with our masterplan include the new $1.3bn Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, which is now underway, the continued growth of the Western Sydney University Bankstown campus, the billion-dollar landmark redevelopment of the Vicinity retail/commercial site, the new Metro which will be rolling into the revamped station in 2025, a new TAFE, and major works around the Appian Way and Paul Keating Park. In the coming years, Bankstown will be a major health and education precinct, offering thousands of opportunities for our local children. Local kids will get the very best right here in our city.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

As a councillor, it is my role to ensure council collaborates with all stakeholders, including the NSW Government, to ensure the best possible outcomes are achieved for the community. It is vital we play a role in key infrastructure requirements, roads and traffic, bus links and interchanges. With the expected growth, my aim is to ensure we maintain our unique identity and continue to support our multicultural community through festivals and events.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

I support properly planned and considered density. That is a broad statement, but I have been quite open that I believe density in certain areas in my ward, like around the new metro and the Bankstown CBD is inevitable and will lead to growth, much needed housing and the creation of jobs. I am not advocating for one moment that density is rolled out holus-bolus but should be properly planned, taking into consideration, required infrastructure, transport links, open spaces and amenities and of course community expectations. The reality is that population growth and the lack of housing has prompted the NSW Government to impose housing targets on councils and we must meet those targets. Therefore, it is in our city’s best interests to create our own vision and wrest control from the government.

George Zakhia — Liberal

George Zakhi, a Liberal candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Bankstown ward. Picture: Supplied
George Zakhi, a Liberal candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Bankstown ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Bankstown Ward and the City?

Over the years, I have dedicated myself to making our community a better place for everyone, and I am proud of the achievements we have made together. Initiatives like upgrading the outdoor basketball court and other facilities in parks, and projects I personally funded from my councillor allocated funds, as I believe in providing quality recreational spaces for our local community.

Our council has achieved a great deal, but there is still more work to be done. That’s why we are committed to the following policies:

– No rate increases: we will never support a rate rise, understanding the importance of keeping living costs manageable for all residents.

– Responsible spending: we are dedicated to ensuring that our funds are allocated properly and spent where they are most needed.

– Service improvement: we are committed to continually improving the basic services that are essential to our everyday lives.

Above all, we believe in being accessible and responsive to your needs. Our doors are always open, and out phones are always on, ready to help, support, and listen.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

We are committed to sensible development. We will continue to advocate for responsible growth, ensuring that any increases in density are in the right places and matched with the necessary infrastructure.

Syed Mustafa Abrar Ahmad — Greens

Syed Mustafa Abrar Ahmad, a Greens candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Bankstown ward. Picture: Supplied
Syed Mustafa Abrar Ahmad, a Greens candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Bankstown ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Bankstown Ward?

As a candidate for Bankstown ward, I recognise the significant challenges our local government area faces as it grows towards a projected population of more than 463,000 by 2036.

Our diverse community, with 17 per cent young people aged 12-24, requires thoughtful, inclusive planning to thrive.

If elected, I'll prioritise youth services, advocating for more dedicated spaces beyond the existing Belmore Youth Resource Centre. I'll push for a state-of-the-art, multipurpose youth centre in Bankstown, engaging young people in its design to ensure it meets their diverse needs.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

Green space development will be another focus.

I'll champion a comprehensive green space strategy to create new parks, upgrade existing ones with better shade and amenities, and ensure equitable access across all wards. I'll advocate for increased funding in our annual budget to make this vision a reality.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

Regarding housing, I support sustainable, well-planned development to accommodate our growing population via community consultation.

I'll also advocate for proportionate improvements in infrastructure, including expanding our 60km off-road shared path network and enhancing public transport.

I'm committed to striking a balance between development and liveability, preserving the unique character of our diverse communities while meeting the evolving needs of our residents.

By focusing on youth services, green spaces, and sustainable development, we can create a Canterbury-Bankstown that thrives for generations to come.

Vanessa Hadchiti — Libertarian Party

Vanessa Hadchiti, a Libertarian Party candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Bankstown ward. Picture: Supplied
Vanessa Hadchiti, a Libertarian Party candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Bankstown ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Bankstown Ward?

With a growing population, housing density, and growing schools, parking is becoming challenging for residents, shoppers and school pick-up and drop-off. The extended time to accomplish a task is creating more frustration and greater risk of error while driving. We need to have a long-term plan for local roads so they’re used efficiently and safely. I believe the council needs to invest further in infrastructure, to ensure all those vulnerable, especially students and seniors, feel safe on our roads.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

Due to increased cost of living, there are more opportunistic crimes, being car theft, shoplifters, house intruders, etc. We need to offset the rising cost of living that has been created by Labor and the Liberals’ poor financial management. As a Libertarian, I believe in reforming the local council spending and slashing all excessive expenditures, to reduce council rates. Also by reducing red tape for local businesses, we can grow the local economy and prosper it, to increase work opportunities for locals. Small business are the backbone of our community and we need to create an environment which prospers them.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

I would support it only if the infrastructure is established and organised by the local council, who are essentially entrusted to implement it. Secondly, the community must be consulted and their comments reviewed. Supportive and unsupportive arguments must be given the opportunity to be heard in a safe and non-judgemental space. A harmonious community is what we ultimately all strive for.

BASS HILL WARD

Saud Abu-Samen — Community Voice of Australia

Saud Abusamen, a Community Voice of Australia candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Bass Hill ward.
Saud Abusamen, a Community Voice of Australia candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Bass Hill ward.

What’s the biggest issue facing Bass Hill Ward?

Having been a part of Bass Hill and the wider Canterbury-Bankstown area for the past 30 years and my experience running for elections previously, a major issue is the roads. When I speak constituents at the shops, the train station, the election booth, the community isn’t asking for bike paths or a new library. Bass Hill roads are so deteriorated, that the major issue is drivable roads. Roads that don’t destroy your cars suspension when driving. The potholes are such an issue, a local TikTok celebrity has taken the initiative to address and raise awareness around the issue. I intend to listen to the community, who have been complaining for years, to allocate council budget to repairing the roads, with a permanent solution and not a temporary fix.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

A major issue in the Canterbury-Bankstown local government area is the lack of support for local businesses. People from all over Sydney come to Canterbury-Bankstown for the culture, the food, the vibrant energy. We had the Lakemba night markets that drew in thousands. Currently, we have an Acai craze. Unfortunately, the current local council is not supporting the creative talent and ambition that we have. The council needs to support and encourage local businesses, by providing greater flexibility and support.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

While high-density housing has many advantages for the community such as boosting the economy, reducing the cost of rent and the cost of homes for first homebuyers, the current infrastructure in the Bass Hill ward could not handle high-density housing. However, I do support working towards improving the current infrastructure and roads for this development in the future of Bass Hill.

Elvis Sinosic — Libertarian Party

Elvis Sinosic, a Libertarian Party candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Bass Hill ward. Picture: Supplied
Elvis Sinosic, a Libertarian Party candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Bass Hill ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Bass Hill Ward?

A major issue in not just my ward, not just my council, but for all Australians, is the rising cost of living. It is putting undue stress on families having to choose between paying bills or taking care of their families. The federal government’s policies have pushed up inflation, interest rates, and because of cost of living, everything is just more expensive now. Even rates are going up but we’re not seeing our services improving. We can help families but slashing rates. We need to reign in excessive unnecessary spending by councils which will free up funds for what matters allowing rates to be cut while also improving council services, relieving some of the cost-of-living pressures.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

Council needs to reign in unnecessary spending. (Residents) are not happy seeing their rates go up while services, not only don’t improve, but at times are going backwards. The council is responsible for the three Rs: roads, rubbish and recreation. We need our council to reign in excessive spending and focus on what they were elected to do, and that’s look after our local council areas. We have far too many pot holes, littered parks, and overgrown median strips for our council to claim they’re doing their best. By focusing on what matters we can cut costs and slash rates and improve the service that is being provided for our local citizens.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

We support individual property rights. It’s undeniable that we have a housing crisis here in Australia and we need more development to keep up with the demand. Bureaucratic red tape is holding back our property owners from being able to build more accommodation. What should take only a few weeks, takes months, if not years to get approval. We need to change this as a matter of urgency. The bloated development application process is a financial drain on the council budget, as well as a huge drain on the resources of families and would-be developers. We need to hold councils accountable for these delays. Let’s return property rights to the landowners. Want to build a granny flat, an extension, or a shed in your backyard? We support it. Want to buy your neighbour’s home and build a block of modern, classy units? We support it. If it does not affect another person’s property rights, you should have the freedom to develop your property the way you want, and we will support it. The real problem is the process, let’s get rid of the unnecessary bureaucratic red tape!

CANTERBURY WARD

Carol Weiming Xie — Unity

Carol Xie, a Unity candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Canterbury ward. Picture: Supplied
Carol Xie, a Unity candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Canterbury ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Canterbury Ward?

One of the major issues I’ve identified in my ward is the lack of accessible community services for families and the elderly. If I am elected to be councillor, I will prioritise initiatives that expand access to these essential services, such as increasing funding for local community centres and advocating for more affordable healthcare options. By collaborating closely with local organisations and listening to residents’ concerns, I aim to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for all.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

One of the significant challenges is environmental sustainability. I plan to address this by promoting green initiatives, such as expanding local recycling programs, supporting sustainable transportation options, and preserving our natural reserves.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

While I understand the need for housing to accommodate our growing population, I believe that any high-density housing developments in our ward should be carefully planned and balanced with considerations for infrastructure, green spaces, and community impact.

My focus will be on ensuring that development is sustainable and that it enhances, rather than detracts from, our community’s character and liveability.

Clare Raffan — Labor

Clare Raffan, a Labor candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Canterbury ward. Picture: Supplied
Clare Raffan, a Labor candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Canterbury ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Canterbury Ward and the city?

One of the most concerning issues, not only in the Canterbury Ward, but across most of our city, and one I am passionate about fighting, is illegal dumping: people who opt to take short cuts and avoid paying tipping fees by dumping on our footpaths, in our parks and suburban laneways.

My ward has some built up sections with transient tenants and a high turnover of overseas students who will rent out properties for eight months of the year and then leave. What we have found is that when they leave, they will often dump their belongings on the footpath, leaving an unsightly mess, health and safety implications, and a cost to the council, which is an unfair cost to ratepayers.

I think most residents are all too familiar with the mattresses, boxes of junk and general household items piled on kerbs.

Then there are those who elect to dump building waste with no consideration for the community. They are nothing more than greedy people who will contaminate our beautiful open spaces and waterways rather than paying tipping fees.

If elected I will continue to push for better education in our schools, throughout the community and through strata management bodies. When we spoke with different cultural communities, we realised that in some countries the practice of leaving waste on the footpath for the authorities to pick up is the norm. This needs to change.

I have previously fought for the state government to do more in our schools and reinforce the messaging with our children. There have been trials done overseas which show that schoolchildren can be fantastic role models for their parents and will hold them to account if they see them dumping.

I have also previously fought for the state government to change strata laws to ensure that higher density living comes with the obligations and penalties that support doing the right thing. I also advocated for increased surveillance which is a good deterrent and I will continue lobbying the state government, fighting to see it address this issue with a view of putting the onus on strata management and landlords and not leaving the ratepayer to clean up after everyone.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

I support high-density housing as long it is place-based, done with proper community consultation and ensures vital infrastructure and open spaces are provided.

The state government has made it quite clear to all councils that the planning changes they have introduced are aimed at addressing the housing shortage and to provide more affordable homes.

I am of the view, and most residents I have spoken with agree, that any increased density should be confined to around our railway stations and major retail centres that can support that style of living but this needs to be thought out in consultation with our residents, it cannot be a “one-size-fits-all” approach.

I have been quite vocal in ensuring our open spaces are preserved, tree canopy is increased, and our parklands and waterways are there for all families to enjoy, these things cannot be lost to provide more housing.

Barbara Coorey — Independent

Barbara Coorey, an independent candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown’s Canterbury ward. Picture: Supplied
Barbara Coorey, an independent candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown’s Canterbury ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Canterbury Ward?

The one major issue as I move in the community is the financial burden of the increase in the rates. Our residents are suffering from the cost of living and the increase in the rates of 36 per cent and the proposed 30 per cent is just creating a bad situation even worse. They do not see value for their rates as the services have been greatly diminished.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

The major issue throughout the local government area is the demerger issue. Most residents want their old council back – Canterbury Council and Bankstown Council. They were smaller councils that delivered the services and did not impose the high rates that are now being imposed. Also, residents want their identity and history back that their old councils represented. I will continue to push for a vote for the residents and a proper and informed business case for the demerger.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

We have delivered on the housing targets and the eastern end of the local government area is being unfairly targeted by the Bankstown end for demolition. Canterbury, Campsie, Belmore, Lakemba, Wiley Park and Punchbowl are being targeted for upzoning and total demolition. These suburbs will be totally unrecognisable.

We do not have the infrastructure for high-density in the area. There are no extra parks, hospital beds, emergency services, road works and enhancements, schools, childcare centres, etc, to support the 200,000-plus persons that the Minns government wants to impose on us.

Conroy Denis Blood — Greens

Conroy Denis Blood, a Greens candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Canterbury ward. Picture: Supplied
Conroy Denis Blood, a Greens candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Canterbury ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Canterbury Ward?

One of the significant issues in Canterbury/Budjar ward is the pollution along the Cooks River. Firstly, I’d like to continue naturalising the river banks, replacing invasive species with native fauna, working with First Nations peoples according to cultural conservation practices. Secondly, I’d like to work with the state government to treat the river’s water and replace its decaying steel sheet pilings.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

One of the significant issues across Canterbury-Bankstown Council is the cost of living crisis. Firstly, I want to reduce supply-side pressures on housing by levying higher rates on vacant properties and Airbnbs. Secondly, I want to impose public and affordable housing requirements on new developments. Unfortunately, Chris Minns’ planning laws make this difficult. Thirdly, I’d like to introduce more council-run early education centres. Fourthly, I’d like to create more community-run food banks and community gardens. Finally, I’d like to introduce more sharing initiatives for unused household items, like toys or appliances.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

There are several caveats to me supporting high-rise housing. Firstly, the housing needs to be affordable and environmentally sustainable. Secondly, there needs to be sufficient infrastructure nearby, including active and public transport, community spaces and parks. Finally, the developments must fit the area’s character and not erode heritage.

REVESBY WARD

Natalie Hanna, a Greens candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Revesby ward. Picture: Supplied
Natalie Hanna, a Greens candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council’s Revesby ward. Picture: Supplied

Natalie Hanna — Greens

What’s the biggest issue facing Revesby Ward and the city?

As the first Greens councillor on the Revesby/Bunya ward, I will focus on the cost of living crisis. I will advocate to keep and increase council-owned housing, and increase the number of not for profit community based early childhood education and after school care centres. I will plan for climate resilience and address energy poverty by strengthening requirements for well insulated homes for renters and homeowners. Building on my success of raising funds and installing solar panels at Revesby South Public School, I will expand on the council’s rooftop solar rebate program to create a local community power bank, which will include batteries and access to low-interest loans which will lower households’ power bills and help the council achieve our net zero emissions targets by 2050.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

A major issue across our council area is the need for well targeted housing developments at appropriate densities which prioritise consultation and co-design with our community which hosts them and include beautiful green spaces, gathering and performance spaces and multipurpose youth centres.

Alwalid Al-Miziab — Community Voice of Australia

Alwalid Al-Miziab, a Community Voice of Australia candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown's Revesby ward. Picture: Facebook
Alwalid Al-Miziab, a Community Voice of Australia candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown's Revesby ward. Picture: Facebook

What’s the biggest issue facing Revesby Ward?

The East Hills Line between Kingsgrove and Revesby is currently experiencing congestion due to the sharing of duplicated tracks by Campbelltown express and local services. This impacts the line’s efficiency, reliability, and service frequency. To alleviate this, quadruplicating the track would allow for separate express and local services, increasing capacity and better accommodating future passenger demand.

As part of the Shared Spaces project, temporary installations in Revesby, Padstow, Belmore, and Narwee have been retained to enhance community areas. While traffic congestion is a widespread issue in Sydney, Revesby’s location might not offer significant travel time savings compared to other areas across the river.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

The Canterbury-Bankstown local government area (LGA) faces several pressing challenges. Two significant issues are housing affordability and waste management.

Housing affordability is a major concern due to relatively low incomes and high housing costs. This often leads to rental stress for many residents. To address this, initiatives such as affordable housing projects, rent-to-buy programs, and financial literacy education can be implemented.

Waste management is another pressing issue, accounting for a significant portion of the LGA’s budget and resident interactions. The high waste contamination rate is a particular concern. Solutions include improved waste education programs, recycling incentives, and community composting.

Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between local government, community organisations, and residents. By working together, we can create a more sustainable and equitable Canterbury-Bankstown.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

It depends on several factors. High-density housing offers efficient land use, better public transport, and mixed-use development. However, it can strain infrastructure, affect quality of life, and change neighbourhood character. Effective community engagement, urban planning, and zoning regulations are essential for successful implementation. Balancing growth with quality of life is crucial for long-term sustainability.

David Walsh — Labor

David Walsh, a Labor candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Revesby ward. Picture: Supplied
David Walsh, a Labor candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Revesby ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Revesby Ward?

We need to make our local streets safer and easier for residents to get around. A major local issue is the lack of footpaths or footpaths in poor condition. This can make it difficult for older people, people with limited mobility or families with young children to access our local shops or community facilities. During the last term, I successfully secured additional resources for footpaths, but more needs to be done and this will be a strong focus for my team.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

I am passionate about protecting the natural environment across our great city. I have led the council’s actions to clean up the litter around the Georges River and I will continue this important work. I also want to stop the illegal dumping of waste materials in our bushland areas. I will fight for more resources to strengthen the council’s investigative and surveillance activities to eradicate this blight on our environment.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

I support well-designed, planned development that is appropriate to our local areas. For instance, increased density makes sense around railway stations and town centres as this can reduce the impact of cars, provide affordable housing options to those currently locked out of the housing market, and retain the liveability of our area. We need a range of housing options that can accommodate the changing needs of our community. Taking the time to plan sensibly for the future will benefit everyone in our local community.

Phillip John Pearce — Australian Democrats

Phillip John Pearce, an Australian Democrats Party candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Revesby ward. Picture: Facebook
Phillip John Pearce, an Australian Democrats Party candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Revesby ward. Picture: Facebook

What’s the biggest issue facing Revesby Ward?

A major issue in our ward is housing affordability. Younger members of the community are being pushed out of the area that they grew up in and love. We want to be the local voice pushing the state and federal governments to ensure the next generation is given the fair go they deserve.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

A major issue across the council is parking availability. Parking development has not kept pace with population growth and amenity growth. This directly impact our local businesses, whose customers can’t get to them anymore, and impacts community facilities that can’t be accessed. We want to ensure plans have adequate parking development to support our community.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

With housing as a whole, we want to ensure what is built meets the community’s requirements and not that of developer profits. We need housing that’s accessible not just to individuals and couples, but to families and intergenerational households. This may involve high-density in limited areas but the Democrats will be insisting that local infrastructure is invested in concurrently with building, not afterwards.

ROSELANDS WARD

Harry Stavrinos — Our Local Community

Harry Stavrinos, an Our Local Community candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Roselands ward. Picture: Supplied
Harry Stavrinos, an Our Local Community candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Roselands ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Roselands Ward?

Many (residents) are concerned about the increases in council rates (more than 36 per cent in the last three years) and the effect that this has had on the family budget. Not to mention the fact that basic services and infrastructure that are supposed to be provided by the council aren’t up to scratch and have been neglected. The council’s job should be focused on the 3 Rs — roads, rates and rubbish — but it appears that the current council isn’t living up to it’s duty of providing these services. As an elected councillor, I’ll make it my duty to hold the council fiscally responsible and to ensure the council is always focused on its main duties.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

The largest single issue that has been discussed with me, is the impact that the closure of the T3 Bankstown Railway Line (for the Metro) will have on them getting into and out of the Canterbury-Bankstown Area; and the imposition by the Minns Labor government of increased densities within 400 metres of the train stations. As it stands now, I don’t believe that our infrastructure like our roads and traffic networks, sewerage systems, green space and other amenities can handle higher density housing. Moving forward if elected, I would be lobbying the council and the state government, to look at ways in improving bus services and other transport alternatives to address the closure of the line.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

I don’t believe that Roselands Ward could handle higher-density housing as it is now because our local infrastructure hasn’t been improved enough in order to cope with higher densities. If elected, I will be listening closely and consulting with our community to monitor their sentiments in relation to this matter. Community consultation is the key to addressing local planning issues.

Karl Saleh — Labor

Karl Saleh, a Labor candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Roselands ward. Picture: Supplied
Karl Saleh, a Labor candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Roselands ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Roselands Ward?

The Roselands Ward I represent has a fairly large footprint with around 80,000 people, a large number from a diverse multicultural background.

There is little doubt the biggest issue facing my ward, particularly the northern boundary, will be dealing with the NSW Government’s announcement to turn the Punchbowl, Belmore, Wiley Park and Lakemba centres into transport-oriented development precincts.

In effect, this will mean multi-storey dwellings with thousands of new homes across the rail corridors.

It’s my role to ensure that this huge investment comes with proper planning to provide for adequate community facilities and infrastructure, open spaces and parks, transport and traffic considerations and most importantly, proper consultation with the community.

We need the right balance to ensure any development provides for social and affordable housing and protects our local heritage and the environment.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

An issue of concern across our local government area, and my ward is not exempt, is illegal dumping and litter.

It is unsightly, costly and disrespectful to the many residents who live in our beautiful city. My ward has a number of high-rise buildings and flats and a large proportion of those are rented out. When some of the residents decide to leave, they simply take the easy option by dumping their mattresses, furniture and other household belongs onto the footpath.

I have no doubt better education and trying to instil a sense of love for the community is a definite starting point. Fining people is a deterrent but it’s about changing attitudes, not just when it comes to leaving furniture on the footpath. Let’s be frank, how many times do you go to your local park only to see someone has left all their McDonald’s packaging on a seat when there is a waste bin only metres away?

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

I have a proven track record of fighting against overdevelopment in Canterbury-Bankstown while supporting thoughtful development that benefits our local community and protects our environment.

I advocate for properly planned projects and infrastructure and that meet the community's expectations. One example, apart from the transport-oriented development precincts, is the recent gazettal of stage one of the Riverwood Housing Estate, which sits on a 30-hectare site.

The plan involves demolishing parts of the existing area and replacing them with multi-storey buildings, providing around 300-400 new homes.

In 2022, I led the community's efforts to ensure this development included a 50 per cent mix of social and affordable housing. I also worked to ensure that community infrastructure, open spaces, and parks were prioritised, along with considerations for schools, health facilities, and transport links.

Solaiman Farshi Hossain — Community Voice Australia

Solaiman Farshi Hossain, a Community Voice Australia candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Roselands ward. Picture: Supplied
Solaiman Farshi Hossain, a Community Voice Australia candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Roselands ward. Picture: Supplied

What’s the biggest issue facing Roselands Ward?

As young people born and raised in Roselands, we often feel disconnected from politics. Our opinions are rarely sought, let alone heard. We live in a rapidly changing world, yet our councillors haven’t experienced the modern education system or dealt with technologies like artificial intelligence. This disconnect contributes to high unemployment and low volunteering rates, worsening the prospects of our youth. I intend to tackle this by holding focus groups with young people from different ethnic communities, improving job training programs, and promoting volunteering to build social cohesion.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

Canterbury-Bankstown suffers from a negative stigma, reflected in disparities in education quality and employment opportunities. As a councillor, I will advocate for funding and resources to support schools, providing free tools and programs that enhance skills and employability. My goal is to empower the youth and improve their future prospects, reducing the stigma and creating a more positive image for our community.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

With one of the largest populations in any council, high-density housing is a short-term necessity due to rising living costs and young people staying home longer. However, my long-term goal is to improve education and incomes to enable more homeownership, reducing the need for high-density housing.

Anisha Gautam — Greens

Anisha Gautam, a Greens candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Roselands Ward.
Anisha Gautam, a Greens candidate for Canterbury-Bankstown Council's Roselands Ward.

What’s the biggest issue facing Roselands Ward?

One of the major issues in the Roselands/Bunmarra ward that we would like to see addressed is the right of community members with permanent residency to vote in council elections. Permanent residents are a vital part of our communities and should be afforded the opportunity to have a say on where their tax dollars are spent.

What’s the biggest issue facing the city?

I think that one major issue that is on the minds of many constituents is the upcoming, year-long closure of the T3 line. There is already concern about whether the replacement buses will be able to meet community demand. One of the ways in which this issue could be addressed is by implementing shuttle buses between community centres and train lines other than the T3. For example, shuttle buses from Punchbowl to Riverwood would not only make it easier for commuters to directly access these areas, they would also alleviate the strain on the T3 line by providing an alternate route into the city.

Do you support high-density housing in your ward?

I support high-density housing that aims to meet the needs of our communities rather than the needs of corporate interests. This involves planning for high-density housing that are place based and community-led, and developments that provide good quality, affordable housing with amenities to encourage community engagement. Any plans for high-density housing should also consider impacts on our local environment, which is some of the most beautiful in Sydney.

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Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/the-express/2024-council-elections-candidates-for-city-of-canterburybankstown-council-profiled/news-story/8ea1a8bd75380ad9462ecf1d69fad74c