FOR almost four years, Fiona Carrick has been raising the profile of Woden’s issues, and now, she’s decided to run as an Independent for Murrumbidgee in October’s ACT Election.

The lifelong south side resident decided to run after seeing the need for an independent voice in the Legislative Assembly. One that is “not aligned with part policy”, she says. 

“Without local government and an upper house of review we need people to question decisions to seek transparency in the planning of our city,” Fiona says.

“I would [also] like to see a better distribution of community facilities across Canberra.” 

Fiona has been the president of the Woden Valley Community Council for almost four years and says she will focus on issues that affect residents in the Murrumbidgee electorate including connecting people through better local centres that support small business and public meeting places. 

“Issues raised by the community include indoor sports and arts facilities, parking and open green spaces,” she says. 

While she welcomes new development, she says it needs to be done well with transparent planning to ensure there’s the right balance between affordable housing, local employment and access to transport, health and education across the diverse electorate. 

Fiona is also passionate about getting a better deal for the south and ensuring people of all ages and abilities feel safe in the community. 

She says she will work towards keeping the government accountable in the development of Canberra’s much-loved “bush capital”.