Carmen runs for local government 2024

Dear Friends and Supporters,

I’m Carmen Lahiff-Jenkins, and I am thrilled to share with you that I am running for election in the North Central ward of Darebin Council. This is a time when strong, independent, and local representation is more important than ever.

The decisions made by Darebin Council impact us every single day. I am committed to ensuring those decisions foster a safe and connected community that we can all be proud of.

Reservoir is not just where I live; it’s where my heart belongs. For over 12 years, my partner Hamish, a dedicated local firefighter, and I have had the joy of raising our children in this vibrant, multicultural community. We spend our days tending to our beehives and gardens, nurturing both our environment and our bond with nature. This deep-rooted connection with our community is what fuels my passion for fostering cohesion and connection.

Growing up as a first-generation migrant on my mother’s side, I never imagined someone like me could run for council. The halls of government seemed very distant from my rural community and cultural background. Despite this, I’ve always been driven by social justice and have a keen interest in how government affects our lives.

I am determined to protect our community during these challenging times of rising cost of living and climate crises.

This year, I will complete my Master’s in Public Policy, furthering my understanding of how community-led participation, leadership, and systemic understanding can lead to effective policy outcomes and governance.

In my current role with the Darebin Neighbourhood House Network, I am working on two vital community projects: Heatwaves and Climate Justice, and the Community Talks Sex program. The Heatwave project has given me the opportunity to collaborate with various services invested in climate justice, while the Community Talks Sex program, funded by the North Eastern Public Health Unit (NEPHU) and supported by Jika Jika, provides parents with the tools to guide their children through their sexual health journeys. These projects have deeply connected me with local schools and parents, helping us navigate the complexities of parenting in today’s world.

I am dedicated to ensuring our kids are safe and well-supported, and that families remain connected.

I am a champion of gender equity and have sat on the Darebin Gender Equity committee for over four years.

I am passionate about evidence-based politics that values community leadership. Trained in community engagement, I love knowledge and skill sharing and work on multiple projects in CALD communities, of which I am a part, using this empowerment model.

Here are a few things I aim to achieve as a council representative:

Increase Access to Public Toilets: This is crucial for combating social isolation among seniors, disabled people, those with incontinence issues, and people who are pregnant.

Improve Animal Management Communications: Work with the community and Darebin’s Animal Management team to ensure everyone understands the importance of the cat curfew.

Protect Seniors’ Freedom: Collaborate with the council and local services to help seniors stay in their homes as long as they wish and remain connected through organisations like Lively.

Protect and Increase Tree Canopy: Safeguard trees from developers and enhance tree coverage with Indigenous species along bike and walking paths, complete with drinking fountains to help communities adapt to heatwaves.

Enhance Public Safety: Identify and address issues around public safety for women, older people, LGBTIQA+, disabled, and CALD community members.

Support First Nations-led Climate Action: Work with First Nations advisory groups to leverage their knowledge in fighting climate change and protecting our community.

Increase Funding for Community Services: Advocate for greater support for Darebin Neighbourhood Houses, libraries, DIVRS, faith-based organisations, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Service Organisations.

Support Community Initiatives: Back groups like Friends of Edwardes Lake, Darebin Hard Rubbish Heroes, Darebin Climate Action Network (DCAN), and the ‘Save Preston Market’ campaign.

Upgrade Amenities at Reservoir Leisure Centres: .

The RLC is a well-used and loved community facility. The area around the RLC has seen an increase in the number of families in recent years, making upgrades to the centre's facilities essential.

Revitalise Clements Reserve: Clean up toxic soil, provide a public toilet, and return water facilities to the park to ensure it remains a safe and welcoming space for all.

Promote Clean Air and Better Waste Management:

Support the ‘No Incinerator for Wollert’ campaign and work on sustainable waste management options with the council and state government.

Support Local Businesses: Highlight alternatives to big supermarkets, including Preston Market and local produce stores like Terra Madre and Psarakos Market.

Foster Vibrant Cultural Spaces: Continue building our unique arts, music festivals, and foodie culture with beloved local spots like Northside, Sycamore Meadows, Lady Bower, My Asian Neighbour, Eat Cannolli, Tyler’s Milk Bar, and many more.

Your support will not only help me represent our community effectively but also influence local government across the state, ensuring our collective voice leads to meaningful change. Please join me in this journey to make Darebin a better place for everyone.

With gratitude,

Carmen Lahiff-Jenkins

Authorised by David Thirkettle-Watts, 34 McMahon Road, Reservoir.