Councillor Elise Wilkinson

Phone: 0458 769 380
Email: [email protected]

About Elise Wilkinson

Describe yourself

I have lived on the Bellarine Peninsula for the past 23 years. We raised our family in Barwon Heads, before moving to Ocean Grove in 2023 We have a strong connection to the community and love the beautiful natural environment on the coast. I have worked as a social worker in a range of different roles across Geelong. For the last 11 years this has been within the public health system. I also work as an actor, performer, co-producer and writer. Geelong has an exciting and rich artistic community, and I'm proud to be part of it. In my work as a social worker, I see the impact of the social and physical environment upon people’s health and wellbeing. I am a strong advocate for access to resources, services and supports to address inequity.

Why did you run for council?

I was elected as Bellarine ward councillor through a countback in September 2023. I believe in genuine democracy and I see the impact that working alongside my community has in improving people's lives. I advocate for women in leadership roles; for standing up for other people and for what I believe is right. I am driven by a strong sense of social justice and am particularly aware of the health issues relating to climate change: the significant impact on young people’s mental health and the vulnerability of older people in our community. I am determined to continue to drive action on climate change and to protect the beautiful natural environment of the City of Greater Geelong. I am grateful and honoured to be re-elected as councillor for Connewarre ward and I will work hard to deliver services and infrastructure that meet the needs of our growing community.

Top three areas of focus during this Council term

1. Providing effective and accountable localised leadership to ensure services and infrastructure meet the needs of residents.
2. Investing in and making measurable progress towards meeting our key sustainability and climate-change related targets.
3. Giving voice to those people in our community who need stronger representation.

What does a ‘clever and creative’ Geelong region mean to you?

For me, this is about always looking for opportunities to harness the immense capabilities and talents of our people, businesses and institutions to work together. In this way we can capitalise on our strengths to forge an innovative and just transition to a low carbon future.

Favourite thing about Greater Geelong?

Geelong has grown into a vibrant regional city; a fabulous place to live and work for so many people, while retaining the wonderful opportunities to enjoy and access the natural environment in our region. There is resilience, diversity, creativity and wisdom in our community that sets us up well for facing challenges in the future.

Portfolio

Chair: Environment & Circular Economy

Deputy Chair: Arts & Culture, Hospitality & Live Entertainment

Deputy Chair: Social & Affordable Housing

Deputy Chair: Disability Access & Inclusion

Committees

Planning Committee

LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee

Submissions Review Panel

Association of Bayside Municipalities

Geelong Gallery

Geelong Regional Library