19 Aug 2024

Anthony Ellard, Labor -Dundas Ward

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What is your name, political party and electorate?

My name is Anthony Ellard. I am the Labor Candidate for the City of Parramatta Dundas Ward. I live in North Parramatta with my wife and two young daughters. I live in North Parramatta which is within the Dundas Ward boundaries.

Are you running for Mayor and if so, why?

No. The Lord Mayor of Parramatta is elected from the chamber.

Tell us about your background both personally and professionally

I am the current Governance Officer for the Australian Computer Society and have worked in the ICT sector for 23 years. I am a member of the AICD and the Governance Institute of Australia. I am studying a Graduate Diploma in Governance and completing my GAICD.

Personally, I am a rugby league tragic. I am a Life Member of the Parramatta Rugby League Referees Association and have served terms as President and Executive Officer of the Association. I am currently coaching the Under 14’s Girls team for the Parramatta City Titans.

What are some things you love about your electorate?

My family and I love living in the area. We lived on Calder Road, Rydalmere prior to moving to North Parramatta. We love walking down to the local cafes with the dog, taking our daughters down to the local parks, and we love the community.

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

My three main areas of focus are:

  • Services and Infrastructure – Ensuring neighbourhoods have the infrastructure they need to thrive and that these are fit for purpose. This includes access to decent library services, child care, community spaces and services for those in need. Development also needs to fit into the area, protects heritage and has appropriate infrastructure in place.
  • Continually improving parks, sportsfields and open space – Ensuring our parks and playing fields continue to improve and be enhanced. Supporting infrastructure so our parklands can be effectively and safely used by sporting groups and the community at large.
  • Responsible Management of Council – Ensuring council is providing the best services and spending ratepayers money in a responsible and appropriate manner. This extends to partnership arrangements that deliver real value to residents.

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

I am a pragmatist. I understand Government moves slowly. It takes years for ideas and concepts to get to the point of opening.

My three aims for my first term would be:

  • Being a good Councillor – Supporting the community when dealing with issues of council and working through the challenges with the community front of mind.
  • Driving a plan to modernise services and infrastructure that support our community in the 21st century.
  • Supporting sustainable development complimented with infrastructure and services.

What about your long term vision for the area?

While many people talk about Parramatta becoming “Sydney’s Second City”, I would like to see Parramatta aspire further to become the “Capital of Western Sydney”. I would like to see the city become an area that is recognised as a stand-alone city. I would like to see Parramatta become a city that drives innovation and uses technology to improve services and liveability.

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