State-level Community Engagement
Why state?
State government decisions play a significant role in shaping everyday issues such as health, education, transport, planning, and environmental protection. These decisions directly affect local communities and the issues residents tell us matter most.
Ahead of the 2026 Victorian state election in November, Voices of Deakin is undertaking state-level community engagement to better understand local priorities and explore whether there is support for community-endorsed independent representation at the state level.
This work focuses on listening to residents and community groups, to understand shared priorities, and ensure any decisions are guided by the community.
Where we're working
Our state engagement focuses on the Victorian Legislative Assembly districts of Croydon and Ringwood.
These districts overlap significantly with the federal electorate of Deakin, while also reflecting distinct local communities, identities, and concerns
Engagement may lead to continued community advocacy, or to the endorsement of an independent candidate in one or both districts, depending on community interest, priorities, and alignment.
Ringwood District
Croydon District
Our approach
We're building on the approach used in our federal work by engaging directly with individuals across the community to understand lived experience, priorities, and concerns.
We are also seeking to engage more deeply with community groups and organisations, recognising their important role in representing shared interests, local knowledge, and diverse perspectives. This includes:
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Local advocacy and resident groups
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Environmental, education, health, and social service organisations
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Business, professional, sporting, multicultural, and volunteer groups
By listening to both individuals and community organisations, we aim to identify shared priorities and better reflect the breadth of perspectives within Croydon and Ringwood.
State Survey
We have launched a Victorian state-focused community survey to gather input on:
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Key issues affecting Croydon and Ringwood
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Priorities for state government action
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Expectations of local representatives
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Views on independent representation at the state level
Community input will help inform our ongoing engagement and consideration of whether to endorse a community independent candidate.
Residents of both state districts are invited to share their views in our State Survey.
Endorsement of candidates
As part of this process, Voices of Deakin may endorse an independent candidate in Croydon and/or Ringwood.
Any endorsement would be:
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Guided by community-identified priorities
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Based on a transparent and considered process
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Conditional on a candidate’s commitment to integrity, accountability, and ongoing community engagement
Subscribe to be kept up-to-date on progress.