This month, Victorians are voting in council elections for local candidates who will represent them for the next four years. As of this year, all metropolitan councils – except for the City of Melbourne – shift to single-member wards, which means that most people will be voting for a single councillor to represent their section of the community.

Neos Kosmos reached out to as many Greek candidates as possible in the upcoming local elections, and they all have a clear message on why their communities should support them.

Of the 37 Greek Australian candidates we talked to, 17 are women—showcasing the strong presence of Greek Australian women in local politics. Many of the candidates are Australian-born, with a few arriving at a young age. Notably, third-generation Greek Australians like Vasilios Tsalkos (Labor, Darebin) and Angelica Panopoulos (Greens, Merri-bek) may bring fresh perspectives to the race.

In Darebin and Merri-bek, both controlled by the Greens, a key issue has emerged: the balancing act between addressing local concerns and the tense backdrop of international conflicts, notably the clashes involving Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah. The area’s demographic shift is exposing a growing divide between progressive professionals and younger residents on one side, and long-established Greek, Italian, North Macedonian, and Turkish communities on the other.

Labor is going all out to regain territory from the advancing Greens by focusing on hyper-local issues. Meanwhile, independent candidates are proposing solutions like a rates freeze and expanded community services, highlighting their commitment to residents’ needs.

This election marks the first postal-ballot since the COVID-19 pandemic. With packs already sent out, voters have until October 25 to return their ballots—a process that may impact older immigrants, including Greeks and Italians who have shaped these areas since the 1950s and 60s.

Emily Dimitriadis (Darebin, South-East Ward)

As a second-generation migrant, I understand the importance of supporting multicultural communities. It is vital that Darebin Council also supports us and other multicultural communities.

Over the past eight years, support for locals has significantly diminished in the Greens’ controlled council. The Greens have defunded the Darebin Ethnic Communities Council, neglected the Reservoir Leisure Centre, and wasted funds on irrelevant ‘discussion’ papers, all while our elders—who built these communities—and newly arrived immigrant families suffer from declining services. If re-elected, my Darebin Labor colleagues and I will ensure greater support for multicultural communities.

Helen Politis (Merri-bek, Harmony Ward)

I am the daughter of Greek immigrants; I was born here, I grew up here, I raised my kids here, and now I care for my mother here.

Locals they are not happy with the absence of fundamental services.

People I talk to are unhappy that the roads haven’t been fixed, and are full of potholes. What about 85-year-old Maria walks out of her house and trips and, as a result, ends up in the hospital? And worse, may face the possibility of never going home but living out the rest of her years in age care.

Council rates are now difficult for normal ratepayers to pay. People with common sense know that current council proposals are unworkable, and that these ideas hurt ordinary people.

Andrew Filippopoulos (Whittlesea, South Morang Ward)

My vision is to create a council that minimises waste and excels at delivering the essentials. Accountability to residents is essential and currently lacking, which is why it’s my top priority. I’m committed to safer roads, cleaner neighbourhoods, beautiful parklands and sports facilities, and easy access to services.

Having lived in this area for over 10 years and raised my family here, I understand our community’s needs. Some of my key policies include freezing rates, creating child-friendly public spaces and libraries, focusing on the basics, rejecting party politics, restoring accountability, and opposing the planned Northern Incinerator. I am here to answer to the people, not to political parties.

Vasilios Tsalkos (Darebin, North Central Ward)

I am a third-generation Greek Australian who attended St John’s Orthodox College, and am running as a Labor candidate for the first time. I am running for the North Central Darebin which includes the fast-growing yet, but often neglected Reservoir.

The North of Darebin needs a strong voice in council, it needs someone to represent its residents, and that’s currently lacking in council.

Our sporting grounds need to be improved . The Reservoir Leisure Centre requires significant improvement, it is essential for families, kids, young people and older residents.

We’ve got to get back to basics – services for people, for residents want their rates to work for them. I think the council now focuses only on certain areas but needs to work for all residents.

Christos Iliopoulos (Wellington, Northern Ward)

The Greek Community may wish to vote for me, by reason that I am able to speak fluently in Greek, and share the same cultural foundations. This common connection makes communication more effective.

They may also wish to vote for me, for the same reason as other constituents: I am approachable, and empathetically responsive to the needs of others. I also have a vision for this part of Gippsland emerging as the most desirable place in which to live. I believe that my experience in industry, local government, and education, will assist me to serve all my constituents well.

Paula Theocharides (Moonee Valley, Canning Ward)

The community needs a strong advocate to improve the lives of people of all ages, abilities, and our diverse & multicultural communities. Having worked in the not-for-profit, community and disability support services, I’ve seen the injustices and iniquities that people face and the detrimental impact that increased social isolation has on mental health.

Canning Ward – Avondale Heights and Essendon West – has been neglected for too long, while other suburbs get new parks and major projects, we continue to miss out.

I will prioritise investment in the basics such as, fixing footpaths and cleaning, which is important for beautification and the safety of our elders. I want the inclusion of our multilingual community members; community mobility by improving the council-run Valley Bus, and much more accessibility, inclusion, and support for people with disabilities

The area has been neglected for too long and there are many issues that the community has shared with me, and much work to be done. I have never been afraid of hard work, and I care about our whole community. I have learnt these values from my upbringing, and they will drive me as a councillor.

Georgia Erevnidis (Kingston, Wattle Ward)

Being Greek and a teacher, I love the food and gardening, I will strive to protect open spaces, improve the look of shopping precincts and local areas, create various projects such as a Youth Shed, push for parking analysis and better value for our rates, support small business along with families and seniors, address the SRL and its effects.

Most importantly, I have a heart to serve the community and its safety.

Virginia Tachos (Brimbank, Horseshoe Bend Ward)

I’m a proud Hellene woman, a strong Independent, who has served on Brimbank Council the last two terms. My strong advocacy comes from my family heritage, my late father from Florina, my mother is Lemnian – both impressed on me strong principles of community service and the importance of my cultural identity.

If elected, I will continue to stand up for fairness and helping others especially as many are experiencing challenges with the cost of living. I have a proven track record of putting my community – not politics first. My door is always open to you.

Amanda Paliouras (Manningham, Ruffey Ward)

As a proud Greek-Australian, I am dedicated to supporting our local Greek community in Lower Templestowe and Doncaster through practical, impactful council actions. I aim to freeze council rates for two years, followed by gradual reductions, ensuring ratepayers get real value through strategic spending. Supporting local businesses is essential; by cutting red tape, we can foster a thriving economy and create more local job opportunities, especially for young people. Health services are also a priority. I will advocate for better allied and oral health services with joint state government subsidies to make them more accessible. Additionally, I’m focused on simplifying planning permits to make it easier and more affordable for residents to enhance their properties, such as building granny flats. Together, we can make our community more prosperous, resilient, and supportive of the values that matter most to us.

Georgina Papafotiou (Brimbank, Copernicus Ward)

I strongly believe by supporting candidates of Greek heritage strengthens ties within our Greek community. I am proud of the many connections that I have built over the years in the Greek community through my teaching career, NUGAS, my involvement in various Greek community organisations, and my previous role as a councillor.

It’s important as leaders we model and inspire our next generation to continue to lead and be proud of our Greek culture and heritage, as our current generation is.

Peter Vasilogiannacopoulos (Moonee Valley, Queens Park Ward)

As a first-generation Greek-Australian my motivation as a candidate for the Queens Park Ward in the upcoming Moonee Valley City Council elections is to affect overdue change on how council conducts its business.

This council has a history of making decisions that do not prioritise the best interests of our broad community. If elected, I will champion good governance, integrity and transparency so that community voices are reflected in decisions that support the wellbeing of our total community and not just the big end of town or the whims of government.

Steve Stefanopoulos OAM (Stonnington, Wattletree Ward)

I have never been a member of, nor been aligned to any political party. I believe that local government should remain with committed local residents.

I am passionate about our community and have volunteered countless hours with numerous organisations.

During my previous terms on Council, I championed the protection of many heritage areas across Stonnington. I will continue to advocate for the preservation of our streetscapes, despite pressure from developers or the state government. Our neighbourhoods are our homes.

I am committed to ensuring our local parks and gardens, footpaths and streets are maintained to a higher standard. The delivery of services to us should be constantly reviewed and where possible improved to ensure it meets community expectations. My work philosophy is continuous improvement. Elect an independent, long-term, local resident who will advocate for you.

Aristea Havelas (Brimbank, Copernicus Ward)

My heritage is Greek/Australian. My grandparents were born in Greece, and immigrated to Melbourne in the late 1960’s/early 1970’s. Last August, I became a Greek Citizen of Aigio, Achaea.

I have and continue to represent our Greek community; at the 2022 Youth Cultural Summer Camp, in Thessaloniki, and the 2024 Youth Conference of the Holy Diocese, in Melbourne. I would be honoured to serve our community. We need to collaborate and preserve our Greek language, culture, and traditions; NOW and for our future generations.

Suzy Stojanovic (Maroondah, McAlpin Ward)

I’m running for re-election to continue building a stronger, more inclusive, and connected community that values the unique contributions of the Greek and Cypriot communities. With years of experience, I can hit the ground running from day one to advocate for improved infrastructure and services to meet the needs of every generation.

Our rich heritage, family values, and traditions make our area vibrant, and I’m committed to ensuring everyone feels represented. My vision is for a Maroondah that honours tradition while embracing progress, creating a safe, connected, and sustainable future for all—from our youngest members to our elders.

Lambros Tapinos (Merri-bek, Brunswick West Ward)

My parents migrated from Greece in the 1960’s, and we’ve called Brunswick home ever since. I am proud of the contribution Greek migrants, like my parents, have made to Brunswick.

We need to look after their aged care needs, develop council services, and tell their story. As a former Mayor and current Deputy Mayor, I see their needs every day, they call me directly because I speak Greek.

I have become their voice. I also want our children to learn Greek in schools, Greek story time in libraries, and childcare in the Greek language.

I support our community organisations and senior groups with grants to rebuild facilities and provide services. Vote for me because our community needs a Greek voice on the council.

Chris Pattas (Boroondara, Maranoa Ward)

The community should vote for me because I bring extensive experience and dedication. I’ve previously served as a Councillor and Mayor, so I understand how local government works. With over 25 years in senior leadership across private industry and government, I know what it takes to run an efficient organisation.

I am passionate about family values, engaging with diverse community members, and upholding the rights of all people.I have a track record of keeping my promises and addressing issues that impact our community. I’m not politically aligned, but I work effectively with all parties and stakeholders. I also have strong communication skills and media training, which allows me to clearly represent our community’s concerns.

Having lived in this area for over 30 years, I’ve built strong ties, especially with the Greek community. I’m approachable, sincere, and committed to making our community a better place for everyone.

Tayla Vorgiatzidis (Brimbank, Mount Derrimut Ward)

As a proud Brimbank local, I understand the challenges we face. With years of experience in the community health sector, I have successfully developed policies, led strategic planning, and advocated for equitable services that meet diverse community needs.

My skills in policy development, service planning, and stakeholder engagement are grounded in a commitment to listening and adapting to local voices.

A vote for me is a vote to bring these skills to Council. New candidates offer an opportunity for growth, and I promise to lead with innovative ways of thinking that deliver real impact.

Jana Sarantis (Swan Hill, Unsubdivided council)

My forebears migrated from Greece to forge a better life for their children and grandchildren, and I too are driven by a similar and want to see our community improved for our children’s sakes.

This election we need to vote for candidates who truly listen, represent and fight for the needs of the community. I intend to be that candidate. After all, Greeks invented democracy, and we pioneered viewing our people as citizens with a voice rather than subjects to be controlled.

I will fight for greater transparency and accountability within council. As a wife, mother and healthcare worker and business owner I have the skills and experience, compassion, empathy, resilience and grit to effectively and strongly represent you on the local government level to achieve positive change in our communities.

Michelle Giovas (Banyule, Sherbourne Ward)

As you can probably tell from my name I am Greek by marriage as I am actually of Irish heritage. I have three beautiful and proud Greek Australian adult children who we have raised in beautiful Banyule. I am the 2023 Banyyule Citizen of the Year and I am running because I want to see community led and driven change for better planning, protection of our unique and beautiful green neighbourhoods and spaces and importantly to restore the trust in our Council.

Kristian Raspa (Brimbank, Albanvale Ward)

As an active and proud member of the Greek community and an educator, I am committed to advocating for our shared values of family, education, and community.

I understand the challenges and aspirations of Greek families in Brimbank and will work tirelessly to ensure our voices are heard.

I will advocate for initiatives that celebrate our rich cultural heritage and provide opportunities for our youth to thrive.

With your support, I aim to build a Brimbank that honours our past while embracing a bright future for all. I am dedicated to being a strong voice for our community.

Arthur Athanasopoulos (Monash, Banksia Ward)

My values, and inspiration are simple. My passion for the Clayton area is rooted in our family history in the area. Since the 60s, where our family has lived and worked right here in the Clayton/Oakleigh area.

I have lived and raised my family right here in the heart of the area. I’m passionate about our community, improving our open spaces, liveability and access to services, for all residents.

Council must provide a great service, from the basics like, roads rates and rubbish collection, to improved retail, commercial, industrial and housing for the whole area. We need to improve access to services, community facilities, sporting, arts programs by focusing on facilities required especially for our residents. I understand our Greek communities needs and expectations having worked closely in the past. If I could have the community support, I will work hard to ensure we have a better Monash for all our residents and the community as a whole.

Jim Grivas (Manningham, Ruffey Ward)

It’s important to have a connection to our community and give them a voice on council as we are there not to only represent the Greek community but the Manningham community as a whole.

With the cost-of-living pressures affecting every household, particularly our Greek elderly citizens in the Manningham area, it will be an opportunity to review these rates and levies from a Council perspective. It’s time to look after our community members.

It will be an honour to represent the Greek Community in the Ruffey Ward, as well as the whole of Manningham.

Michael Glynatsis (Yarra, Hoddle Ward)

I am a local businessman in Collingwood & Fitzroy. I have been an Independent Councillor since 2023 working together with other Independents to create change, transparency and truly represent the residents.

I am currently running for re-election in the Hoddle Ward and need your support to reverse the anti-democratic changes that have been made, reducing the residents’ say in Council affairs.

The flood mapping in Collingwood will affect valuations and increase insurance so the stormwater problem needs to be addressed. Rates Roads & Rubbish – the core business of a Council! Let’s get that right.

Terry Mitropoulos (Nillumbik, Swipers Ward)

I am committed to fostering positive change and ensuring our voices are heard. Through a decade of hardship, I’ve learned firsthand the importance of a strong, supportive community.

My experience has fuelled my passion for enhancing opportunities for our youth, supporting our elderly, nurturing local businesses, and protecting our environment. I prioritise transparency and collaboration, working alongside residents to address our most pressing needs.

Only together can we truly make a difference, and this is what I stand for. Your vote is not just a vote for me; it’s a vote for a brighter future for all of us.

Rex Lazaros (Casey, Casuarina Ward)

My Papou and Yiayia taught me from a young age that while hard work is essential, the most important thing in life is family. They instilled in me the understanding that success means nothing if we don’t take care of the people we love and support those around us.

This is the mindset I want to bring to council—to work hard but always prioritising the well-being of families. I will dedicate myself to ensuring that all families are supported, connected, and have access to the resources they need to thrive.

Terri Soumilas (Maribyrnong, Saltwater Ward)

The Greek settlement in the area (Yarraville) is a great example of how migrant communities contribute to our broader cultural experiences. This history is important to me, and I want to help preserve and share it. I will plan to organise an annual local Greek Festival for all parts of the community, and I would listen and welcome input from my elders and community.

I am an experienced community advocate with a long history of working in local government and not-for-profits. My vision is clear, I want to create a place that celebrates our diversity and fosters an inclusive atmosphere that values different cultures, identities, and views of the world. I understand that our community faces many issues on a daily basis that the council must actively respond to and plan for.

Our city is growing, and Maribyrnong is part of that growth. The local council needs to take an active role in influencing this growth in a way that is sustainable, affordable, and appropriate to the area, ensuring proper planning, respect to our cultural histories, and maintenance of public areas and facilities.

Esther Anatolitis (Melbourne, Team Hakim – Resident Independents)

Across 20 years I’ve been a dedicated member of our city’s Greek-Australian communities: an active contributor to our cultural life, publicly championing the issues that concern us. I’m a former board member of the Antipodes Festival, and was featured in Her Voice, Varvara Athanasiou-lonannou’s book on Greek-Australian women in leadership, as well as the Neos Kosmos 50th Anniversary magazine.

A regular at the Greek Centre and Hellenic Museum, I’m invited to open shows, join panels or judge prizes featuring prominent Greek-Australians. With career expertise in urban culture, small business, policy and governance, I’m proud of Team Hakim’s ground-breaking policies in these areas, including a ground-breaking economic policy focused on precinct partnerships, and $10m towards multicultural festivals.

Inspired by the Greek Centre’s generosity in making office space available to non-profit organisations, we’re providing further incentives for property owners to follow suit. And there’s so much more to tell you “όταν τα ξαναπούμε” (when we catch up again).

Helen Pavlidis-Mihalakos (Merri-bek, Westbreen Ward)

As a lifelong resident of over 55 years and a current Merri-bek Councillor, I have a deep understanding of our community’s needs. With three generations of my family living here, I know firsthand what matters most to our residents and local businesses. It’s time to refocus on the essentials and prioritise local issues that affect our daily lives.

I’m committed to ensuring well-maintained infrastructure, with safe roads, footpaths, and bicycle paths for everyone. Our public spaces should be clean, free from graffiti and rubbish, and inviting for all. Community services must be diverse and accessible, catering to every resident through all stages of life—especially our most vulnerable.

I’m also passionate about inclusive engagement, making it easier for older and non-English speaking residents to have their voices heard. My goal is to foster a community that is safe, supportive, and welcoming for everyone.

Tony Athanasopoulos (Kingston, Bunjil Ward)

The cost of living is my main priority. As a small business owner and resident with deep roots in the area, I know the challenges we face. I pledge to increase the tax refund for retirees, claim discounts on the Waste Service Charge, and support aged care associations and services. At the same time, I will invest in infrastructure such as improvements to roads and sidewalks, ensuring safe travel. With your support, we can work together for a community where every resident’s voice is heard and decisions are made with common sense.

Angelica Panopoulos (Merri-bek, Harmony Park Ward)

I’m your current Greens councillor and former Mayor of Merri-bek. I’m the granddaughter of Greek migrants, and their experiences in moving to Australia and the struggles they overcame has deeply shaped me and my politics. I am committed to ensuring that Council supports older, multicultural communities with properly funded, culturally appropriate services.

As a lifelong local, I love and understand our community, and I’m passionate about making sure everyone is looked after with good quality services, and infrastructure, like well-maintained footpaths.

If re-elected as your Greens Councillor, my priorities include building a new library, housing and open space in Central Coburg, making it safer to walk around our community through properly maintained footpaths, and supporting Council-run aged care services.

George Stavrakis (Whittlesea, Thomastown Ward)

From a young age, my parents sent me to Greek school and along with speaking Greek at home, I learnt the language and am able to speak it with confidence today. Many of the Greek Community that I have met with in Thomastown all had the same concern, every time they called someone from the council to ask for help, there was no one that could assist them with the limited English they have. I will be there for the community to help get their voice heard.

Peter Razos (Yarra, Lennox Ward)

My father moved to Melbourne post-war, operating greengrocery shops. My mother managed our home and helped in the shop, teaching me hard work. Married with two daughters, I enjoy cooking and support our Greek Orthodox church by providing meals for the underprivileged.

With a background in engineering and real estate, I’ve developed properties in Europe and Melbourne. Now retired, I’m dedicated to enhancing Yarra Council’s efficiency and making an impact in Lennox Ward. Bishop Kyriakou blessed me outside the VEC office before the ballot, where we prayed for the No.1 spot on the ticket; my prayers were answered.

Sophy Galbally (Melbourne, Team Elvis Martin)

Most of Melbourne’s Greek community was established by migrants between 1951 and 1970, including my family. Arriving here, many faced challenges such as language barriers, racism, and adapting to a culture far removed from their village life.

My father, Panagiotis Gyftopoulos, played a significant role by sponsoring others to come to Melbourne and establishing the Pappaflessa Social Club, where Greeks could meet, socialise, and support each other. I’m proud that this club remains active today with my relative as President.

Although there aren’t many Greek voters in the City of Melbourne, I aim to be elected and represent our community, drawing on my experience as a former councillor in Manningham.

Following the loss of my son Eli in 2020, my world changed. Now that my youngest son Zac has made me a proud Yiayia, I’m determined to support the next generation in embracing their heritage.

Tasa Damante (Maroondah, Wicklow Ward)

I want to create an affordable, liveable, family-friendly, and vibrant community that provides opportunities for everyone.

I’ll work to deliver the new Croydon Community Wellbeing Precinct and Croydon Main Street enhancement project, and fight to upgrade and keep the Maroondah Hospital in Maroondah

Wicklow ward, which covers the suburb of Croydon, is a very young area, with many young families and young adults, so I’m committed to unlocking opportunities for them around childcare, education, healthcare, and employment – the things residents are telling me they need amid this cost-of-living crunch.

Katerine Theodosis (Merri-bek, Westbreen Ward)

I’m a lifelong local and the Labor endorsed candidate for Westbreen in Merri-bek Council elections. I grew up in Pascoe Vale, attended Pascoe Vale Primary and Strathmore Secondary, and now live in Hadfield.

As the daughter of Greek migrants, my Greek-Australian identity has helped shape the values that I bring to this upcoming election. If elected, I will advocate for important issues that matter to our community such as, good quality services e.g., aged care, maternity health and child care, support for our local sporting clubs, maintaining local parks and pools and keeping rates low to ease the pressure on households during this cost of living crisis.

Anthony Koutoufides (Melbourne Lord Mayor, Team Kouta)

I’m from Melbourne, my parents and grandparents all lived in Melbourne, and we all loved this city. I was born and bred in Melbourne, and it was the greatest city in the world so I am sad to see what’s happening with it now.

Crime is one focal point.

I will speak to Victoria Police first, and if they can’t do anything, then I will look at alternatives like extra security people to make people feel safer.

Growing up here, seventies, eighties, nineties – I walked around the city with a smile. I used to go out to bars, nightclubs – we had the most incredible time. Now, I am concerned for my kids if they are out in the city on a weekend – it shouldn’t be that way.

Nicolas Zervos (Melbourne, Team Wood)

I was invited to become a member of the team by Arron Wood because of my passion for the city. I’m all about promoting this city as the capital of Victoria. Melbourne is the heartbeat of Victoria and I am frustrated by the fact that the city has become neglected over recent years.

Traffic: We’ve got to avoid gridlocks. While we have bicycle paths, there must be a balance so that people can enter and exit the city efficiently.

Homelessness: There are facilities in metropolitan Melbourne owned by the state government that could be used to accommodate homeless people. Some overseas cities encourage the homeless to stay near hospitals or rehabilitation centres.

Cleanliness: The city is not as tidy as it once was. Melbourne is a drawcard for tourism… the last thing you want is an messy city.

Voula Allimonos (Merri-bek, Randazzo Ward)

I’m a first-generation Australian-Greek and have lived in Brunswick all my life.

My parents migrated from Greece to Brunswick in 1956, I grew up within this community.

My 19-year-old son has also lived in Brunswick all his life.

As a teacher I have taught Greek for many years. I am also a member of the Pallaconian Brotherhood committee, in Brunswick.

I inherently understand the community’s values, traditions, interests and concerns.

I possess intimate knowledge of the area’s needs, challenges, and opportunities.

As a teacher of the Greek language and culture, I have contributed to its preservation, ensuring its continuation for future.

Due to my cultural roots, community involvement, and local expertise, I resonate with Greek voters in Brunswick, and am dedicated to serving our community.