Dr Hayley French, Labor, North Rocks Ward, City of Parramatta

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What is your name, political party and electorate?

Dr Hayley French, Labor, North Rocks Ward, City of Parramatta

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Tell us about your background both personally and professionally

I am an artist, curator, mother and lover of suburbia. I grew up on Jenkins Road in the North Rocks Ward and have lived in the area or neighbouring suburbs my whole life. Together with my family I have been heavily involved in local sporting clubs, community and social justice groups. Since completing my PhD in Contemporary Australian Painting, I have gained 10-years experience working in the local arts and culture sector, with 6-years experience in the Community and Culture team at City of Parramatta Council. I am passionate about better connecting people with arts and culture, community and interest groups, and Council services.

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What are some things you love about your electorate?

I love our incredible local arts and culture. Opportunities to connect with arts and culture through local events, festivals, public art and programming is fundamental to our collective sense of belonging. I love our beautiful parks and green spaces and I spend my weekends in these places with my husband and our 2-year old daughter. I love the community connections I have through my local mother’s group, library programming, and bookclub. These connections (and many more local services, programs and groups) make me feel at home here.

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What do you believe are the 3 main issues affecting your electorate and why?

  • Disconnection from community and services
  • Lack of community infrastructure to service our growing communities
  • Local traffic issues

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What are the 3 key things you plan to achieve if elected?

  • Parramatta Council has some incredible services and facilities on offer to residents. I believe we can increase community participation by improving communication and reducing barriers to access. This includes ensuring that our facilities and services are fit-for-purpose.
  • The North Rocks Ward is a growing and changing community and it is imperative that we advocate for upgraded and contemporary community facilities and libraries to cater to this growth.
  • As our suburbs grow we must ensure that all future development is appropriate and balanced, and advocate for: significant contributions to community infrastructure, improvements to traffic conditions and transport links, contributions to affordable housing, and innovative sustainable approaches.

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What about your long term vision for the area?

I have a clear vision for a Parramatta where all residents feel a
strong sense of belonging and are empowered to participate in the
future of our City and its neighbourhoods.

A clear vision for our future:

  • A strong sense of belonging
  • A connected, affordable place to live
  • A beautiful, habitable environment
  • A place full of opportunities

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