Wednesday, 29 November 2023

Mulgrave by-election

Lee TARLAMIS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (09:55): I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Eden Foster, the newly elected member for Mulgrave. Eden’s journey is testament to her lifelong commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. Her extensive background as a volunteer, including at Vinnies – having started the Vinnies branch in Noble Park – as a clinical psychologist, a counsellor and mayor reflects her values of fairness, equality and compassion. These values have guided her throughout her journey, which has now brought her to this place, driving her to serve her community tirelessly, with passion and determination. Whether counselling students and those impacted by drugs and alcohol or taking up the local issues as a community advocate, Eden has always strived to help others.

During her campaign Eden shared with us her personal experiences and her deep-rooted connection to her community, which motivated her to put herself forward to be a strong local voice for the community. Eden has a profound understanding and appreciation of the role of governments and the impacts good governments can have on the lives of people every day. Growing up with a single mother showed her firsthand how Labor values can be lifelines for families facing challenges.

Having lived in the Springvale–Noble Park area for over four decades, she is not just another politician but a neighbour who intimately understands the needs and aspirations of the community she represents. Her track record of service and her ability to get things done are qualities that will undoubtedly make her a strong and effective voice for the people of Mulgrave in the Allan Labor government. As Eden steps into her new role as the member for Mulgrave, we can be confident that she will continue to serve her community with dedication, integrity and a deep commitment to the values that define her. I look forward to the positive impact she will continue to make in the lives of the people that she represents.