By Mikayla van Loon
The independent movement has expanded further east with a Voices of candidate endorsement announced for Deakin ahead of the Federal election.
Jess Ness officially launched her campaign on Saturday 11 January citing that the “community deserves a representative who listens to them and can act on their behalf” and is not “bound by party politics”.
Deakin, which was held as a Liberal seat in 2022 by 375 votes, stretches across Croydon, Kilsyth, Ringwood, Park Orchards, Mitcham and Nunawading.
The Blackburn-based mum of three tried her hand at the most recent Maroondah Council elections and was put forward as a community-nominated candidate in the Voices of Deakin search.
Although she “never imagined standing for election” but was “increasingly compelled to stand up and act”, Ms Ness said she was prepared to be a listening ear and voice of the people of Deakin.
“My values are rooted in integrity, community engagement, and sustainability,” she said.
“I want to be a leader who listens first, engages with people directly, and prioritises transparency and evidence-based decision-making. I will always put the needs of my community first and be a voice for them in the halls of Parliament.”
Ms Ness’ campaign platform is based on the key pillars of climate action and resilience; integrity and trust; community health and safety; and equity and inclusion but said Deakin had a universal list of challenges as well.
“People in Deakin are facing similar challenges to many other Australians: affordable housing, rising costs of living, and inadequate mental health services, in particular services for young people,” she said.
“There is an urgent need for climate action, as we’re already experiencing the impacts of climate change here in our community. I will advocate for policies that address these issues and get Deakin residents the support they deserve.”
With a background in geophysics and geothermal energy, as well as a board member for community services which focus on environmental sustainability, Ms Ness said she would bring her knowledge and experience from these entities to a representative role.
This, among work on both a professional and volunteer level in the migrant sector, Ms Ness said social cohesion was front of mind as well.
“In a society that is experiencing its lowest sense of social cohesion in 16 years, I will not prompt further division with aggressive or condemning rhetoric,” she said.
“We are facing multiple challenges, and if and when those challenges bring hardship to us in Deakin, it is each other we will be turning to.”
On the topic of cost-of-living, Ms Ness said this issue would continue to be ongoing if not addressed with correct policy.
“We talk about the current cost-of-living crisis as though it is a temporary event, yet without intervention, we need to consider that this could become our new normal.”
The Voices of and for movement was grounded in hearing and reflecting the community’s wants and needs in Parliament.
“Listening to the community is core to this campaign, and I value their collective thoughts, ideas, and experiences. It is imperative we create safe and respected avenues for engagement, beyond social media and campaign rallies,” Ms Ness said.
Committed to attending events and hearing from the community in person, Ms Ness said the next few weeks and months would see her “being actively engaged within the community”.
“I want people to feel safe in speaking to me about their experiences and ideas, regardless of whether they align with my views.
“To me, it’s just as important that I provide opportunities for community to speak with me, as it is to provide opportunities for community to listen to, and share ideas with each other.
“This is not just about me running for office; it’s about building a movement of change, grounded in collaboration and acknowledging that we are a strong and resilient community.”
Having lived in and around Deakin for 15 years, Ms Ness said she was a passionate Deakin local ready to do her part for the community she loves.
“I admire the strength and resilience of the Deakin community. Deakin is full of diverse, passionate individuals who genuinely care about each other and the environment.
“I also appreciate the area’s natural beauty, from its parks and waterways to its local gardens. The sense of community in Deakin is inspiring, and I was heartened by how we rallied in support of one another during the Covid pandemic.”
