More Local Jobs, Stronger Businesses and New Investment

Footscray should be a place where local businesses can grow, people can find opportunities and investment creates lasting benefits for the community.

Small businesses, traders, workers and entrepreneurs contribute to Footscray’s character and economy. When businesses struggle or commercial areas lose activity, the effects reach beyond individual shopfronts — affecting employment, confidence and the wider community.

Government should focus on removing unnecessary barriers, using public money responsibly and supporting conditions for sustainable local economic activity.

My priorities

1. Give local businesses a stronger voice

I will listen to local traders and business owners about the obstacles they face, including operating costs, access, planning processes, safety and barriers to growth.

I will raise issues that require state government action with the relevant ministers and agencies, and pursue council-level concerns through the appropriate channels.

2. Support local jobs and skills

I will advocate for employment and skills initiatives that respond to demonstrated local needs, including opportunities for young people and people trying to enter or return to work.

Where public funding is involved, I will seek clear information about the intended outcomes and how results are measured.

3. Encourage responsible investment

Footscray needs investment that creates genuine economic and community value. I will support transparent planning and decision-making that consider local employment, business activity, infrastructure needs and the impact on existing neighbourhoods.

I will scrutinise major proposals and public investments rather than assuming that every announcement automatically delivers value.

4. Demand value from business support programs

When governments announce grants, business assistance or economic development programs, I will seek information about eligibility, expenditure and results.

Public money should be assessed by what it delivers — not simply how much is announced.

5. Help commercial areas thrive

I will advocate for practical improvements that help people access and enjoy local commercial areas, including attention to safety, transport connections, public spaces and the conditions needed for businesses to attract customers.

What I can realistically do as an MP

An MP cannot guarantee that a private business will succeed, compel a company to invest or create jobs by personal decision.

My role would be to advocate for effective state policies, scrutinise government programs, identify barriers that require government action and work with businesses, workers, councils and relevant agencies to pursue practical solutions.

I will be clear about which proposals require government funding, which depend on other decision-makers and which are matters for private businesses.

How residents can hold me accountable

If elected, I will work to report publicly on:

• Business and employment concerns raised with government.
• Government programs or funding decisions I have scrutinised.
• Barriers to local economic activity that I have pursued.
• Responses from responsible authorities and any progress made.

My commitment: I will push for a local economy that creates real opportunities, supports responsible investment and treats public money as a responsibility to the community.

Hai Dinh
Independent Candidate for Footscray
Safety. Opportunity. Community.