Hi, I’m Susanne.

I’m the Mayor of Darebin and am so proud to have represented the Preston and Reservoir community as your Councillor for the last eight years. 

What we have here is special, and I want to both protect what we have and make it an even better place to live. 

My driving force is fairness and equality. For two decades I’ve fought for a more equal society for workers, women, and a more level playing field for those who have less access to power. Now I’m raising my toddler son in Darebin, my drive for a better world and society is stronger than ever.  

We are a proudly progressive community, and as your Councillor I will always take a stand on the things we care about. We no longer celebrate 26 January in Darebin, and we stand up against injustice in all its forms.  

In my time on Council, we’ve achieved so much together. We’ve lowered speed limits to make our streets safer, built affordable housing on Council land, taken real action on the climate emergency, and protected and enhanced the natural beauty of the Merri Creek, Edgars Creek and Edwardes Lake Park. 

But there is more to do. The challenges we face are significant. We’re all feeling the impact of cost-of-living pressures, the housing crisis, and the impacts of the climate emergency. The future of Preston Market remains uncertain despite the groundswell of community support to save it. 

I’ll fight for safer streets for children and older people, quality and affordable housing for all, improving public transport and extending the number 11 tram, and investing in services and infrastructure such as a new and sustainable Reservoir Leisure Centre. 

My vision for Darebin is a future where: 

• Everyone can safely walk, wheel, cycle or catch public transport because it’s the easiest way to get around.
• Homes are high quality, comfortable, sustainable and affordable, and everyone who needs a home has one.
• Nature flourishes, open space and adventurous playgrounds are close to home and the climate emergency is addressed.
• The streets are alive with small businesses, character, nightlife, where fresh and affordable food, your workplace and everything you need is within 20 minutes of home.
• The community is thriving, and people know and look after their neighbours. Where residents of all backgrounds are welcomed, included and feel at home.
• Council’s services and infrastructure meet the needs of our growing population and community members have decision making power to co-create our shared future.