We sent every candidate we could find in Maroondah's four state districts the same six questions. Same questions, same space, no favourites. So here's what that looks like when you put the answers next to each other, seat by seat. MX doesn't endorse any candidate or party, and this page gets updated as more replies come in.
One thing to look for as you read: a commitment can mean very different things. So we've labelled each one.
Funded: money has actually been announced by government.
Party policy: something their party promises statewide if it gets the numbers.
Advocacy: something the candidate says they'll push for, with no money attached yet.
The six questions we asked
What are the most important decisions at this election for local residents? Which sit with the state, and which can Council make itself?
What are your priorities for local health services, schools, public transport and roads? What would residents notice?
How should housing growth and density be matched with transport, schools, drainage and open space? Where should Council and residents have a say?
How do state grants, rate capping and funding responsibilities affect Council services and household costs? What would you change?
What's one specific local commitment: what is it, what funding and approvals does it need, and when would it be delivered? Is it funded, a proposal or advocacy?
How can residents raise concerns and check progress after the election? Is there a local issue these questions miss?
Croydon
The current MP, David Hodgett (Liberal), isn't recontesting. He answered as the sitting member and wants his successor to focus on school capacity, health access, public transport and congestion.
Glenn Brindley, One Nation
Big issues: clearer answers on who's responsible for which services.
Services: upgrades and more staff at Maroondah Hospital.
Housing: consultation with residents before high-rise development.
Commitment (advocacy): push for better bus links between neighbourhoods, Croydon station and Maroondah Hospital. He was clear it isn't a funded announcement.
Richard Farr, Labor
Big issues: education, health and cost of living.
Services: a 100% bulk-billed Urgent Care Clinic and a free dental clinic in the electorate.
Housing and rates: not directly answered.
Commitment (funded): the Croydon North Kindergarten redevelopment. In September the Victorian Government announced an initial $4.5 million, through a Building Blocks Partnership with Maroondah City Council, for up to 118 kindergarten places. That's existing government funding, not a new promise.
Lini Fernando, Greens
Big issues: cost of living, housing and rent, and health care. Croydon is heavily mortgaged, so rate rises bite.
Rates: councils are underfunded by the state, and the state should fill the gap, not ratepayers.
Housing: more housing, but residents consulted before big developments.
Commitment (party policy and advocacy): rent caps, stamp duty cuts and free public dental. Locally, she campaigns against expanding the Boral Montrose Quarry.
Invited, no reply yet: Beth Grimshaw (Victorian Socialists), Toby Wooldridge (Liberal), Dave Vanderwolf (Independent).