Rifai A Raheem – Candidate for Tarneit District.
Candidate Bio:
Rifai A. Raheem is a dedicated community advocate with over 30 years of volunteer service, including 17 years living in Tarneit district with his wife and children. Deeply committed to social equity and inclusion. He had led major grassroots projects such as the Melbourne Grand Mosque and the WIC Early Learning Centre in Tarneit, a $10 million initiative mainly funded by the community.
As a long-time unionist, Rifai has personally recruited over 1,600 members and organised numerous campaigns to improve conditions for workers in the tertiary education sector. His strong presence is widely recognised in the West, particularly through his work at Victoria University.
With academic qualifications in Agricultural Science and Entrepreneurship, Rifai brings practical expertise to addressing local challenges, empowering communities, and protecting the environment.
Rifai’s grassroots leadership and deep local ties making him a strong, trusted voice for Tarneit.
Candidate Statement:
My name is Rifai A. Raheem, and I am honoured to stand as your Greens candidate for the Tarneit District. With over 30 years of service as a community advocate, unionist, and social entrepreneur and having lived in the area for more than 17 years, I have a deep understanding of both the challenges we face and the potential we hold. This is a critical moment for Tarneit, and we need bold, progressive leadership to create the change our community deserves.
A Lifetime of Grassroots Engagement
I have dedicated decades to building a fairer, more inclusive society by working directly with communities at the grassroots level. My work has spanned a range of roles, including:
• Union Organiser, mobilising and organising thousands of workers to stand up for better wages, job security, and workplace justice.
• Community Organiser, leading local campaigns for community safety, inclusive public spaces and for environmental sustainability.
• Project Leader, driving initiatives to improve local infrastructure and services in response to our region’s rapid growth, often secured through community-led funding efforts.
• Policy Advocate, shaping public debate and influencing government decisions on transport, education, workers’ rights, and social equity.
These experiences are grounded in strong local engagement and backed by past election campaigns have equipped me to be a strong voice for Tarneit in the Parliament.
My Vision for Tarneit
Guided by the Greens’ values of social justice, ecological sustainability, grassroots democracy, and peace, I am committed to building a Tarneit where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Better Public Transport
Tarneit deserves a fast, reliable, and sustainable public transport system that keeps pace with our growing community. I will advocate for:
• More frequent train and bus services.
• Improved local bus connections across our suburbs.
• Electrification and expansion of key rail infrastructure.
• Safer cycling paths and walking trails to create greener, healthier communities.
Affordable and Secure Housing
Housing is a human right, not a privilege. Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. I will fight for:
• More public, community, and genuinely affordable housing.
• Stronger protections to ensure renters have security and dignity.
• Better planning that delivers sustainable neighbourhoods with the services people need.
Better Public Health Services
Our growing community deserves access to quality healthcare close to home. I will advocate for:
• The delivery of a public hospital in Tarneit by 2030.
• Expanded local health, maternity, and mental health services.
• Increased investment in community health centres and preventive healthcare. • Better access to GPs and allied health services for local families.
Quality Education for All
Our young people deserve access to excellent education close to home. As Tarneit continues to grow, I will campaign for:
• New primary and secondary schools to meet increasing demand.
• A local TAFE campus and university facilities to create pathways for learning and employment.
• Greater investment in early childhood education and community learning opportunities.
Together, we can build a fairer, greener, and more connected Tarneit for current and future generations.
Community Safety and Inclusion: I’ll support local programs that strengthen community trust and safety by:
• Working with youth, families, and law enforcement to prevent harm. • Ensuring public spaces are inclusive and accessible for everyone.
Climate Action: The West deserves clean air, green space, and a liveable future. I’ll fight to:
• Transition the region to 100% renewable energy.
• Protect natural areas and promote sustainable urban planning. • Support local jobs in the green economy.
Workers’ Rights and Fair Jobs: I’ve helped many union members and will continue to fight for:
• Secure, well-paid, and meaningful employment. • Stronger workplace protections for all.
Supporting Local Businesses: Small businesses power our economy. I’ll promote:
• Innovation and green entrepreneurship.
• Local job creation and fair procurement practices.
Record of Local Support
In the 2024 Wyndham Council election, I secured over 2,700 primary votes and finished second in Brinbeal Ward with more than 5,300 votes after preferences.
In the recent Werribee by-election, I secured 5,995 votes with preferences, building on the Greens’ growing vote base.
During the last federal election in Lalor, I led Greens campaign coordination, resulting in a 5% swing toward the party reaching 25.7% at one polling booth where I was present throughout the day.
My Pledge
If elected, I will be a voice for people championing policies that prioritise the well-being of our community and the health of our planet. I will listen, advocate, and act for a fairer, greener Tarneit.
Together, we can turn hope into action and vision into change. I humbly ask for your vote to bring strong, compassionate, and progressive leadership to Parliament.