Intaj Khan
Candidate for Deputy Lord Mayor
Intaj Khan, a prominent business leader and former Wyndham City Councillor, has officially announced his candidacy for Deputy Lord Mayor of Melbourne. Known for his dynamic leadership in both the public and private sectors, Khan brings a wealth of experience and a visionary approach to urban development, community engagement, and economic growth.
Khan’s eight-year tenure as a councillor in one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing regions, Wyndham, has been marked by his steadfast commitment to promoting sustainable growth and improving the quality of life for residents. His leadership was instrumental in advancing infrastructure projects, fostering economic opportunities, and transforming Wyndham into a thriving, future-focused community. Khan’s innovative strategies in urban planning, housing, and economic development have positioned him as a key driver of positive change in the region.
Khan’s journey from humble beginnings in a small village in India to becoming a highly respected business leader and community advocate in Australia is a story of resilience, vision, and dedication. His philanthropic initiatives, including the establishment of the “Intaj Khan Scholarship” in partnership with La Trobe University, have empowered disadvantaged young women from Melbourne’s western suburbs, giving them access to higher education and the opportunity to build successful futures.
In addition to his public service, Intaj Khan has also made a significant impact in the business world. As CEO of Countryland Australia Limited, Khan has overseen major projects worth over $250 million, including high-profile residential and commercial developments. His company earned a prestigious spot on the Australian Financial Review’s “Australia’s Fastest 100 Companies” list, ranking 14th—testament to his strategic vision, business acumen, and ability to navigate Australia’s competitive marketplace.
Khan’s dual expertise in business and governance sets him apart as a candidate for Deputy Lord Mayor. His experience as a CEO has given him critical insights into economic development, which he applied during his time as a councillor. As the Urban Futures Portfolio holder in Wyndham, Khan was responsible for overseeing housing, urban design, and long-term financial planning. He also served as Chair of the Future-Focused Economic Portfolio and Deputy Chair of the Tourism and Major Events Portfolio, roles in which he played a pivotal part in shaping Wyndham’s future.
“I am running for Deputy Lord Mayor because I believe Melbourne has the potential to be one of the world’s most liveable cities for everyone,” said Khan. “My experience in both the public and private sectors has given me a unique perspective on how to drive growth while ensuring that we prioritize the well-being of our communities. Melbourne is at a crucial point in its development, and I want to bring my expertise to help lead the city into a prosperous future.”
Intaj Khan’s story is one of determination, integrity, and a deep passion for community development. As a candidate for Deputy Lord Mayor, Khan is committed to bringing his visionary leadership and experience to Melbourne, ensuring it remains a city that champions innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable growth.
Intaj Khan
Gladys Liu
Candidate for Councillor
Gladys Liu is a prominent figure in Australian politics, and was the first ethnically Chinese member of the House of Representatives for the Division of Chisholm in Victoria.
Gladys arrived in Australia from Hong Kong in 1985 at 21 years old to study speech pathology on a full scholarship, and has since had a significant presence in both the business world and community sphere. Liu is a single mother of 2 grown up children – Derek, a Harvard MBA graduate and Sally, the Australian Girls Champion for Chess and a Princeton scholar.
Liu has a vision to make Melbourne a vibrant, multicultural and welcoming city, and to return it to its former status as the Most Liveable City in the World for now and future generations to inherit. Gladys will put residents and rate payers first and pledges to deliver positive changes to make Melbourne busy again, to drive people into the city to support businesses and promote our amazing cultural, arts and sporting scene.
Gladys Liu
Zaim Ramani
Candidate for Councillor
Zaim Ramani, a name synonymous with hard work and community spirit, is stepping into the political arena with a vision to revitalize Melbourne, making it not just a city to live in, but a city to live for. Born in Thornbury, Melbourne, to Macedonian-born Albanian parents, Ramani’s roots are deeply embedded in the fabric of this city. His journey from a young football player in the Diamond Valley League to a successful property developer with his ZLM Commercial Group showcases his range and passion.
Known for his work in the city’s real estate sector, his career has been marked by involvement in various significant development projects, which have contributed to the urban landscape of Melbourne. With a deep understanding of property markets and urban planning, Ramani has established himself as a key figure in Melbourne’s development community.
His expertise spans across residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments, making him a prominent voice in discussions about the future of Melbourne’s urban environment. As candidate in the City of Melbourne council election, his background in property development will inform the team’s approach to urban planning, housing affordability, and attracting new investments to the city.
Ramani’s life story is one of perseverance and family. Married to Lineta, with three young children, his commitment to family mirrors his dedication to his community. His early years were marked by the family’s Bakery wholesale business, a venture that began from scratch and thrived despite hardships, including his father’s health challenges and loss of his leg. At a young age Zaim took over the business, instilling a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of business dynamics from a very young age.
His achievements in philanthropy are notable. Ramani funded the construction of a mosque in Reservoir, a project that not only provided a place of worship but also symbolized community cohesion. His involvement extends to sponsoring local sports clubs and coaching childrens’ soccer teams, reflecting his belief in nurturing community spirit through personal dedication.
Now, Zaim Ramani is bringing his entrepreneurial spirit to politics. Ramani envisions a Melbourne where businesses thrive, not just for profit but as vibrant hubs of community interaction. His plans include fostering an environment where local enterprises can flourish and enhancing the city’s economic landscape with a focus on infrastructure that supports a high quality of life. Ramani aims to integrate green spaces, improve public transport, and ensure affordable housing for the residents of Melbourne.
Understanding the city’s heart beats through its arts and culture, Ramani proposes to increase funding and support for cultural festivals and arts events, making Melbourne a global cultural hub. His campaign promises to rejuvenate public spaces, making them centers of activity, from markets to music festivals, ensuring Melbourne’s streets are alive with its diverse population.
Zaim Ramani’s candidacy is not just about political change but about breathing new life into Melbourne, ensuring it remains a beacon of liveability, culture, and community spirit. His background as a family man, community leader, and successful businessman positions him uniquely to lead Melbourne into a future where every citizen feels comfortably at home in their city, and to make Melbourne the World’s Most Liveable City once again.
Zaim Ramani
Emma Carney
Candidate for Councillor
Emma Carney
Olivia Tjandramulia
Candidate for Councillor
Olivia Tjandramulia was born in Jakarta, Indonesia, and moved to Australia at a young age to pursue her tennis career. Olivia competed at the Australian Open and internationally for Australia, winning 10 titles for the International Tennis Federation’s World Tennis Tour for Australia. Olivia’s remarkable career includes a Junior Circuit Ranking of 39, career-high World Singles Ranking of 350 and World Doubles Ranking of 100.
Olivia brings passion, stamina, discipline and an incredibly hard work ethic to Team Kouta and as your Local Councillor elect. Her journey and interests go beyond tennis – her international touring has afforded her first-hand experience of the major, international cities of the world. She has seen first-hand what works and does not for cities such as Melbourne, and hopes to bring this wealth of understanding and policy to the chamber as your representative.
Olivia knows the profound impact of both mental and physical wellness on residents’ daily lives. Mental health and wellbeing as well as physical fitness are close to Olivia’s heart. She is committed to fostering an environment where mental health and physical fitness are at the forefront of our agenda, with Local Council hosted classes and events and more support for mental health support services.
Public safety, sustainability, a cleaner Melbourne, reliable and effecient public transport and supporting small businesses are also issues close to Olivia’s heart. She envisions a City of Melbourne where families can enjoy beautiful gardens and lush parks, spaces that not only enhance our quality of life but also draw international tourism and global investors, reinvigorating our local economy and bringing life back to Melbourne City.
As your Councillor, Olivia will be a strong advocate for wellbeing, families and businesses – supporting them with policies that foster growth, innovation, and sustainability. Olivia is dedicated to making the City of Melbourne a beacon of progress and prosperity for the world, and would be honoured to serve as your Local Councillor to get the job done.
