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Meet Aidan McLindon, former MP, Former Soldier, Teacher, Family Man and Musician.
Aidan is also an Independent Candidate in Saturdays Election bought on by the sudden resignation of the previous incumbent, Tim Pallas from the Labor Party
We asked Aidan the question everyone is asking; ‘What do you think are the major challenges for Werribee and Wyndham Vale, and what will you be doing about it”
‘The main problems are always the same and we always see them when an area is taken for granted,’ said Aidan. ‘We need to immediately tackle:
- Crime (especially Youth Crime)
- Access to Medical Services
- Infrastructure and Transport’
“Tackling crime, especially youth crime is my absolute priority” said Aidan, “I will introduce a Crime and Rehabilitation Bill (The Tough Love Act) that will provide accountability for young offenders, but we also need structured programs in schools to provide activities that mitigate offending behaviour”. Asked for more detail, Aidan responded “For a minor offence, Juveniles can expect to be rostered on Graffiti Cleanup. The first serious offence will land the offender in ‘Boot Camp’ for a minimum of a week and up to a maximum of 12months. Parents will be responsible for attendance as its imperative they are involved in the solution. For a serious second offence, offenders 17 years and over will undertake 12 months National Service. At the end of the term, the experience will allow them to transition into the Defence Forces or other meaningful job opportunities”.
As part of this approach, Aidan worked with colourful Melbourne Identity, Mick Gatto to develop a self defence program for schools. ‘As a young lad, I was a bit of a knockabout and it was boxing and the discipline of the gym that channelled my energies toward something useful’ said Mr Gatto, ‘This is a genuine opportunity to start re-engaging our young people again’.
Aidan’s previous experience in government also gives him the knowledge and experience to deal with another major headache for local residents – Access to Medical Services.
Aidan is particularly concerned by this. “The lack of access to medical services in Werribee significantly impacts residents. Limited availability of healthcare facilities, such as Werribee Mercy Hospital, can force individuals to travel long distances for care, which increases costs and delays in treatment’ he said. “This issue disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly who face logistical barriers. Emergency services are strained, with many unable to afford or find timely GP consultations, exacerbating health disparities and reducing overall well-being in the district” As the local Member, Aidan will advocate greater access for all Werribee residents.
And thirdly, transport in Werribee is a real issue for Aidan. He shares the frustration with our locals when it comes to getting to and from and around Werribee. Aidan says “In Werribee poor transport and infrastructure significantly impact residents. Limited public transport options force reliance on cars, despite high ownership costs, exacerbating financial strain for low-income families. Inadequate services hinder access to employment, healthcare, and education”. Congestion and unsafe roads increase travel times and risks, while insufficient bike paths limit active transport options. These challenges, compounded by rapid population growth, strain community resources, reducing quality of life and economic opportunities for Werribee residents.
One last comment from Aidan:
“This Saturday is the first real opportunity in decades for the people of Werribee to make their voices really heard. Ask yourself this – ‘Have the Labor Party kept their promises over all these years’ If you think the answer is No, then it’s time to give a strong Independent a go!”
