Hi, I’m Emma.

I’m running as an independent for Westbreen ward in this October’s council election. I care about our community and am committed to representing your voice.

I have proudly called Merri-bek my home for over 20 years. I cherish the memories my family have made, from summer days at the Pascoe Vale Pool, to exploring Westbreen Creek. Like you, we have made a life here and have formed connections with our neighbours, local businesses and our green spaces.

My goal is to create a healthier, happier Merri-bek, driven by evidence, compassion, and integrity. I'm excited to bring a fresh perspective and positive change to our community.

Before running for Westbreen ward, I have spent 15 years as a neuroscientist, working to understand how the environment shapes our brain throughout life. I am passionate about what makes us thrive and healthy, from exercise, keeping our brain active and keeping stress at bay.

I am the other sort of doctor – I am not useful in a plane emergency! But I do have decades of practise at seeking out evidence and making decisions informed by this. I can represent you by listening to you and by finding the right information to help guide our plan for the future.

Am I the right person to represent you?

You can read more about my
approach below.

  • I have spent my working life collaborating with different people, including scientists, medical doctors, government, members of our community and business. People have told me I am a connector - I can see ways for people with very different perspectives to align towards a common goal. This way of working is essential for anyone on council.

  • Councillors spend a lot of time reading large documents, from developers' proposals to drafts of how our council plans to consult with you. I can do this; I'm an academic and can read and decode difficult text. I will also ensure that decisions made by the council are informed and not driven by personal agenda. I like to ask why, and will ensure evidence of the benefit for our community is always included.

  • Effective councils need to follow protocol (and I care about this). I have 15 years of experience in governance on local and national committees, boards and advisory groups and have undertaken AICD board training.

  • I know my neighbours, I have been trusted with their stories and we support each other. I have dedicated my spare time to provide new career paths for women, to bring the excitement of science to our community, and have already worked with other locals to design the vision for Merri-bek. I strongly believe we all need to work together if we want a safe and clean community.

  • I am not a career politician and my science background drives my balanced thinking. I am not beholden to any faction, political party or vested/corporate interest. My campaign is community driven. I felt compelled to stand up for you and our community at a time when there are so many compounding areas of concern: climate change, declining integrity in politics, cost of living pressures, and the rapidly changing housing landscape and all this brings.