Our candidates

Andrew Rowse

A Melbourne City Councillor and former university innovation leader, Andrew has spent nearly a decade helping researchers, startups and young innovators turn great ideas into real businesses.

Sahar Khalili

Sahar's career spans pharmacy, leading digital and IT transformation projects, and more recently entertaining crowds as a trivia host and TV juror. She believes honesty, transparency, accountability and integrity are non-negotiable.

Second on the ticket. Running under Andrew Rowse — Vote 1 Andrew.

Heath McKenzie

A business consultant and passionate advocate for Australia’s horticulture industry, Heath is a Director of Greenlife Industry Australia and a former Chair of the Tree and Shrub Growers of Victoria.

Jacqui Morel

Born and raised in the South-Eastern Metropolitan Region, Jacqui works in a local small business and volunteers with local kinder, school and youth sports organisations.

Second on the ticket. Running under Heath McKenzie — Vote 1 Heath.

Andy Meddick

A Torquay local of thirty-seven years, wildlife rescuer and community campaigner. Andy was elected to the Legislative Council in 2018 and served the Western Victoria Region.

Peter Kelly

A long-standing Geelong local, independent thinker and advocate for evidence-based governance. Peter is committed to helping restore public trust in our political institutions.

Second on the ticket. Running under Andy Meddick — Vote 1 Andy.

Leonie Green

National President of the Australian Democrats and a lifelong resident of the region, now living in Mitcham. Leonie runs her own practice as an accredited mediator, leadership coach and consultant.

Ryan Parris

Victorian and Tasmanian State President of the Australian Democrats, and the founder of a solar energy business. Ryan has helped rebuild the party and secure its Victorian Electoral Commission registration.

Second on the ticket. Running under Leonie Green — Vote 1 Leonie.

Chris Thiery-Lai

A former banker, now a proud stay-at-home dad, and a Finance and Economics graduate from the University of Melbourne. Chris believes Melbourne's west deserves greater attention, investment and accountability.

Nigel Keenan

A long-term resident of Melbourne’s western suburbs who works in insurance and as a workplace union organiser, Nigel is standing for honest, accountable government and a fair share of investment for the west.

Second on the ticket. Running under Chris Thiery-Lai — Vote 1 Chris.

Clive Jackson

Victorian President of the Democrats from 2017 to 2023, and an urban statutory planner for 30 years. Clive's main concerns are the cost of living and unaffordable housing.

Philip Broadbridge

A retired maths professor who has also worked as a factory hand, school teacher and research scientist. Philip has served on management committees from schools and universities to sporting clubs and a community choir.

Second on the ticket. Running under Clive Jackson — Vote 1 Clive.