What is your name, political party and electorate?
Dr Hayley French, Labor, North Rocks Ward, City of Parramatta
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.
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.
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
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.
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
- Website: drhayleyfrench.com
- Email: drhayleyfrench@gmail.com
- Facebook: Hayley French
- Instagram: @drhayleyfrench