Rick Garotti

I know Banyule well, having lived and studied in the local area most of my life. I attended Loyola Secondary College and was an active member of the Diamond Valley Eagles Basketball Association. I continue to support a range of local community groups including the Watsonia RSL.

My wife and I live in the Dunvegan estate in Macleod adjacent to Gresswell Forest Reserve. We are raising 2 daughters: our eldest attends Bundoora Primary School.

I have qualifications in finance, accounting and economics, and I bring strong financial experience through my work as a Finance Director in a large metropolitan health service. I worked as a management consultant for an international accounting firm for 10 years where I provided financial and strategic advice to large public and private organisations. I also bring a solid understanding of the workings of government through previous work with the Victorian Government and the Federal Government in a strategic policy role.

We are blessed to live in Banyule and I genuinely believe Banyule is the best place in Victoria to live, work, invest and raise a family. I am motivated every day that I have the privilege to serve as Grimshaw Ward Councillor to invest in our local services, infrastructure and amenities, and deliver for the local community.

Beyond my local commitments I am deeply passionate about Council's ambitious Inclusive Local Jobs program. This has set the benchmark in Local Government, creating jobs and opportunities, transforming lives and building futures for those in our community who need it most.

Council has a key role to play in advancing good, long-term policies that improve the sustainability and liveability of our city. We need to continue to deliver smart and coordinated policies that focus on:

• appropriate development
• keeping rates and charges low
• investing in our local community assets
• providing excellent customer service to residents.