A seasoned professional with local government, governance, board leadership, community advocacy and legal experience. Solid knowledge of local government legislation and operations of Victorian councils. Council, Tribunal, board and community stakeholder management. Excellent advocacy skills and communication skills. Collaborative leader with documented strengths in building and maintaining relationships with diverse stakeholders and within the community.
Appointed by the Attorney General of Australia to the Migration and Refugee Division.
Prepare for and hold hearings for review of refugee protection visa refusals and other migration related refusals. In preparation for hearings, do legal research including country information, assess protection claims and write decisions.
Elected in 2008 to represent the Mullum Ward, subsequently re-elected in 2012, 2016 and in 2020 elected to the new Wonga Ward. (Moved from multi-member to single member wards).
Mayor of the City 2012-2013 and 2017-2018.
Deputy Mayor of the City 2016 and 2020.
Council Representation:
Appointed as a Community Member.
Contracted to provide Information Application Assistance and Advise services to Asylum Seekers in detention throughout Australia including Christmas Island, Leonora, Darwin IDC, Curtin IDC and Weipa IDC.
Provided the applicant with advice, prepared the applicants claims for protection and represented the applicant at the interview with immigration.
Provided applicants with advice and assistance at review of refusals at detention centres and in Melbourne and Sydney.
Board Representation:
Board Member and Secretary 2014-2016
Board Member and Secretary 2013-2016
Memberships:
Other: