We are thrilled to present our candidates for CPSU Vic Branch council in the 2025 union election. Our candidates are dedicated, hard-working public servants who believe in the power of member-led unionism.
CPSU Victoria’s Branch Council is organised into 9 separate electorates based on your workplace and workplace postcode. Each electorate is given a number of representatives based on how many union members are in that electorate.
If you don’t know which of the below is your electorate, use our handy electorate finder tool.
Use our How To Vote document to help fill out your ballot.
- Electorate 1: Health And Community Services (4 seats)
- Electorate 2: Resources (3 seats)
- Electorate 3: Education (2 seats)
- Electorate 4: Justice (9 seats)
- Electorate 5: Central Agencies (7 seats)
- Electorate 6: Barwon/South Western Region (4 seats)
- Electorate 7: North Western Region (2 seats)
- Electorate 8: Gippsland Region (2 seats)
- Electorate 9: North Eastern Region (1 seat)
Our Candidates
Electorate 1: Health And Community Services (4 seats)
Dylan Kelly-Morgan
Homes Victoria
I’m Dylan, a delegate at Homes Victoria and a union activist for the better part of 10 years.
I’m running for Victorian Branch Council with A Voice for Members because I want to build a fighting union — one run by and for members.
I believe we can rebuild CPSU Vic power by supporting rank-and-file organising, embedding democratic and accountable decision-making structures, and actively engaging members in the fights that matter — including defending public service jobs and improving wages and conditions.
At Homes Victoria I’ve helped build rank-and-file power by supporting members to speak up, get organised, and win local conditions above the agreement. During the recent EBA campaign, I led a workplace campaign to educate members about what was on offer. We shared resources widely to support robust debate and informed voting. That’s the kind of cross-site solidarity and organising our union should be fostering every day.
If elected, I’ll support the development of a strong delegate network, meet regularly with members across Health and Community Services, and remain accessible and accountable to those I represent.
Kristal Allison
DH
With nine years in the VPS, a background in social work and peer support, and now as a workplace delegate, I understand the complexities and daily realities across health and community service organisations.
Since 2017, I’ve volunteered as a peer supporter in my department. Colleagues regularly seek me out because of my commitment to building safe, respectful, and supportive workplaces, and my ability to help them navigate workplace challenges and prioritise their wellbeing.
In my current role at the Suicide Prevention and Response Office, I’ve seen the critical importance of psychologically safe workplaces and the vital role union representation plays in protecting workers. It has reinforced my belief in the need for a strong, member-led union—one that doesn’t just react to problems but actively shapes our working conditions.
That’s why I’m proud to run with A Voice for Members, a team of delegates and activists committed to restoring transparency, democratic decision-making, and strong, strategic unionism. We believe members should be at the centre of every major decision.
If elected to VBC, I will fight to ensure your voice drives meaningful action.
Lexi Marsh
DH
Hello! I’m Lexi Marsh (she/her). I’m a social worker and have worked in the VPS for nine years. I’ve worked in DHHS and DFFH regional / divisional offices, DJCS, DH, and in emergency surge roles. I currently work in the Wellbeing Promotion Office in the Department of Health.
Like many of the fabulous people I’ve met in the VPS, I care deeply about achieving better health and wellbeing outcomes for our communities.
I’m running for Branch Council as part of A Voice for Members because I believe in the strength of community, collective action, and strong, democratic unions. I want to play an active role in making sure our union is truly member-led — with transparent governance, genuine participation, and structures that listen to workers and respond to their needs.
I want to help drive change so we can continue to do work we are passionate about in fair, supportive, and respectful workplaces. Workplaces that uphold human rights, value wellbeing, and strengthen outcomes for both workers and the communities we serve.
Mark Ritch
DFFH Housing
I’m Mark Ritch, a housing manager working in inner metro high-rise estates. I’ve been a union member and activist for over 30 years in both the UK and Australia, active in Unison and now the CPSU.
I’m running for Victorian Branch Council with A Voice for Members because I believe in a union that listens to its members, acts on their input, and makes sure members have real ownership over the decisions that affect them.
Much of my working life has been in community development and community engagement — ensuring those most affected by decisions have the power to shape the outcomes. That same principle should be at the heart of our union.
I want to help build a CPSU where democratic participation is not just a principle but a practice — where delegate networks are strong, cross-department organising is supported, and members know their voices matter. That’s how we shift from passive representation to active, member-led unionism — and how we build the strength needed to take on the challenges ahead.
Electorate 2: Resources (3 seats)
Callum Simpson
DEECA
Hi, I’m Callum, a science graduate with DEECA, in the Earth Resources Regulator.
It’s a rough time to be an early-career public servant. I joined the VPS just as government started turning its back on public servants. Training and job security for graduates is being cut, undermining the development of skilled, committed public servants. That’s not just bad for us—it’s bad for the future of the public service.
Before this, I served as an elected rep with the NTEU at Melbourne Uni. I sat on the branch committee and co-coordinated the Direct Action Working Group. In 2023, we took strike action and together created space for members to raise their voices—sometimes loudly, directly, and to management. If elected, I’ll bring that same commitment to building democracy and member power in the CPSU.
The best thing about collective action? It gives us time and space to ask bigger questions: How should our jobs actually be? What kind of public service do we want? I’m proud to run with A Voice for Members—a team committed to rebuilding our union from the ground up.
Chris Bydder
EPA
As Principal Odour Scientist at the Environmental Protection Authority, I tackle Victoria’s most reported pollution: odour. This role involves fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and community engagement to identify and mitigate sources of odour pollution. I’ve proudly been a CPSU member since 2001, serving as a delegate from 2003-2010 and again since October 2022.
My union activity includes securing significant pay rises (15-50%) for after-hours roles in 2011 and further improvements in 2015. These negotiations were challenging but rewarding. I’ve represented members in workplace issues, advocating for a connected public service where employees feel supported and empowered.
I believe in unionism and a collaborative approach that embraces diversity. I see CPSU’s revitalisation through A Voice for Members as an opportunity for a transparent, democratic union where every voice is heard.
This vision includes clear structures and pathways from rank-and-file to delegates, council, and ultimately the executive, ensuring that the union remains responsive to its members’ needs. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive union that champions the rights and interests of all public service workers.
Patrick McCormick
DEECA
My name’s Pat and I’d love to be your Resources rep on the Branch Council. I’ve been an active union member in my public sector roles over the past 18+ years, including stints as a CPSU delegate in both my VPS workplaces so far (EPA Victoria and DEECA).
Whether it’s championing member interests in campaigns, discussing EA appendix conditions in bargaining, or supporting individual members – I’m there fighting for our rights.
While I’ve experienced great support from our organisers, my time in other public sector entities showed me what a democratic, member-engaged union looks like. I want CPSU to be like this too, so I’ve been energised to join other passionate members in A Voice for Members.
My commitment to a fair go, democratic process and representing member interests carries into my other volunteering. I volunteer with a large youth development organisation, with experience supporting young adults reach their leadership potential.
I have 7 years experience on the branch executive council of a member organisation, and would love to bring my experience to support CPSU members on Branch Council.
Electorate 3: Education (2 seats)
Anthony Hasseldine
DE
I’ve been a committed union member since 2010, including many years in the AEU as a workplace rep. In that time, I’ve seen how important it is to have unity and numbers when negotiating with employers.
This is where our strength lies — at both local and system levels — and it’s something the current CPSU leadership, despite decades in office, has failed miserably to deliver.
That’s why I’m running as part of A Voice for Members. I believe it’s time to rebuild the CPSU into the strong, democratic and member-driven union we need. That starts with growing our membership, but it also means restoring transparency, increasing member engagement, and raising the union’s profile in workplaces and the broader community. Delegates and members deserve better.
Giang Pham
DE
I am a long-time union member and community advocate. I started my career in the frontline community welfare sector before moving into central government, where I’ve worked to drive best practice and develop policies that are meaningful to the workforce and the communities we serve.
My passion for advocacy, accountability, and fairness continues to shape the work I do every day, for the public and for my colleagues. I’ve been an active CPSU member since 2021 and a workplace delegate since 2023, supporting coworkers, raising issues, and pushing for improvements in our workplace.
I’m nominating for VBC to represent Department of Education staff and to help build a stronger, more democratic union—one that truly listens to its members and takes action. We need a union that reflects our values, stands up for workers, and gives us all real power in decisions that affect our working lives.
That’s why I’m proud to stand with A Voice for Members—a team of rank-and-file CPSU activists committed to transparency, accountability, and putting members first.
Let’s do it together.
Electorate 4: Justice (9 seats)
Amy Woollams
CSV
I’ve been a CPSU member for 18 months and recently stepped up as a Health and Safety Rep. I work at the Coroner’s Court of Victoria in a role focused on preventing family violence, and my professional background is in social work.
I connected with A Voice for Members through efforts to support union members who were speaking up on international human rights issues. I was disappointed to find that when some members experienced workplace pushback for expressing these views union leadership offered little to no support. Despite repeated attempts to contact the union by phone and email, we were met with silence. Sadly, this experience mirrors what many members face across multiple industrial issues. It’s one of the reasons I support A Voice for Members.
Although I’ve always backed unions, it’s only in the past 18 months that I’ve come to see their real power and how transformative it can be when members are active and organised.
I’m nominating for VBC because I believe our union should reflect the values we fight for: democracy, transparency, and accountability.
Christian Cassar
Metropolitan Remand Center
I’m a Senior Prison Officer at the Metropolitan Remand Centre with over 12 years of experience on the frontline. I’ve seen too many officers shut down when they raise concerns, leaving critical issues unresolved. That has to change.
I’m standing with A Voice for Members because I believe our union should be led by the people doing the work—people who know the risks, the pressure, and the reality of life on the floor.
I will fight to make sure the voices of frontline staff are heard and acted on. Our jobs are tough, and the system only works when those on the ground have a real say in the decisions that affect us.
I will push for genuine improvements to safety, conditions, and the way our profession is treated, starting with making sure officers are recognised and respected for the work we do.
This isn’t about one person demanding change—it’s about all of us. We need leadership that listens, represents, and delivers. We deserve a union that backs us every step of the way.
John Stowell
DJCS
I’ve been a member of the CPSU for five years. In 2022, I became a delegate and established monthly member meetings for the first time in my organisation’s history.
Since then, we’ve brought on two more delegates, doubled our union membership, and grown workplace density to approximately 40%. I’m extremely proud of what we’ve achieved together, and I’m excited to take this next step in my involvement with the CPSU.
Public services are under attack around the world, and the best defence is a strong, democratic, member-led union. That means we need our strongest, smartest team out there fighting for workers’ interests—and I believe I can make a real contribution.
I’ve come to know many of the members of A Voice for Members (AVFM) and I’ve been consistently impressed by their intelligence, integrity, creativity, and deep commitment to bringing genuine renewal to our union. I would be proud to stand with them on Branch Council to help build a more transparent, responsive, and fighting union.
Nell Houlihan
JARO
I’m running for Branch Council with A Voice for Members because I believe an active and engaged union is crucial to the success of the VPS and its workers.
I’ve been a member of the CPSU since I started my VPS career in 2020. Over those five years I’ve seen a declining faith in the union to advocate for public servants.
Previous benefits of the public sector like job stability and steady wages have been replaced by fixed term contracts and once-off bonus payments that don’t benefit the workforce long term.
Despite the tired stereotypes about public servants, I know our workforce is driven, passionate and dedicated. We deserve a union that recognises that and fights for us.
A strong and influential union needs to constantly grow and adapt to the needs of its members. I’m excited to be part of a push for new leadership with A Voice for Members, a stronger member base and a united public service.
Phoebe Marshall
CSV
I am committed to building a union led by and for its members. I’ve been a CPSU member for several years and a delegate for almost one, at the Coroners Court of Victoria. In that time, I’ve worked with members to establish collective power in our workplace and supported colleagues through complex industrial issues.
I believe deeply in the power of workers. Collective action is the most transformative force we have — it’s how we win safer workplaces, better conditions, and dignity on the job. As public servants, we also have a responsibility to hold our employers accountable — not only for how we’re treated at work, but for how their decisions impact the people of Victoria.
That’s why I’m standing with A Voice for Members. I want a union that empowers members to speak, act, and lead. We need stronger delegate networks, real structures for participation, and open, transparent leadership that backs member-led campaigns.
If elected to Branch Council, I will work alongside members to push forward our collective causes and make sure your voice is heard.
Rachel Liebhaber
DJCS
I’m Rachel Liebhaber, a Senior Legal Policy Officer in Civil Law Policy, working in Courts, Civil and Criminal Law. I’ve been a proud CPSU member for almost three years.
Before joining the public service, I worked as a Legal and Industrial Officer across several unions. This experience gave me a strong grounding in industrial law and union governance.
I know what a well-organised union can achieve when members are engaged and leadership is accountable. That’s why I’m excited to be running for Victorian Branch Council with A Voice for Members — a team of rank-and-file delegates, activists and members who are committed to building a stronger, more democratic and transparent CPSU.
We believe members should have more say in union decisions, more access to information, and more support when they need it. I want to see a union that not only defends our rights at work, but also empowers members to lead campaigns and win lasting change. That takes active, responsive leadership and that’s what I’ll work for on Branch Council.
Rui Da Costa
Melbourne Assessment Prison
I’m running for Victorian Branch Council with A Voice for Members to help shape a stronger, safer and fairer workplace for all CPSU members.
As a delegate for over eight years, I’ve successfully led the MAP CPSU Local Group, delivering real wins for our colleagues through collective action. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved locally—but I also know we need change at the top if we want a union that listens, fights and delivers for all members.
I believe in the power of workers coming together. I want to take a more active role in building a democratic, transparent union that stands up for fair conditions, safe workplaces and real accountability. Being on Branch Council would give me a platform to help shape policy, represent members’ voices, and make sure the union’s direction reflects what members actually need—not just what’s easy.
Sam Elkin
Victoria Legal Aid
Hi, I’m Sam Elkin (he/him), a Senior Lawyer in the Economic Rights team at Victoria Legal Aid, specialising in Centrelink and NDIS appeals. I’m a CPSU delegate and Health and Safety Rep. I’ve been a union member throughout my working life — from retail and hospitality to call centres, government, and community services. In 2011, I completed a Certificate IV in Unionism and Industrial Relations through the ACTU, working on the NUW’s Baiada poultry factory campaign.
I’m proud of my public sector work — from summary crime law in Gippsland, to anti-discrimination advocacy, to fighting for mental health reform. But I’ve also seen the toll restructures and insecure work take on our sector. During the 2023 Health Department restructure, I watched skilled and passionate workers burn out or walk away. It doesn’t have to be this way.
We need a union that organises, listens, and acts. That’s why I’m standing with A Voice for Members — to build an active, democratic union that fights for the wages, conditions and job security we all deserve, especially in a cost-of-living crisis.
Shaun Minehan
Corrections Victoria
As a paid-up CPSU member for 5 years, I believe the time to make a change in our union’s leadership is now. Why am I putting my hand up? Because last year, for the first time, I needed support from the union and I didn’t know where to go. I didn’t know who my rep was at Corrections Victoria. That’s a problem. A glossy magazine once a year doesn’t cut it.
I work full time in the Sentence Management Division at CV. The EBA process was a disgrace. I’ll never forget the contempt shown in the Zoom sessions — questions ignored, mics muted. That’s not leadership. That’s not accountability. That’s not unionism.
I’m standing with A Voice for Members because I want a union that’s present, available, and willing to fight — not just during bargaining, but every day.
I don’t pretend to have all the answers. But I will show up, listen, bring ideas to the table, vote with integrity, and dedicate my time to solutions that benefit us all.
Electorate 5: Central Agencies (7 seats)
Conor Murtagh
Department of Treasury and Finance
Hello, I’m Conor and I’m running for VBC in the Central Agencies division. I’ve been involved in numerous grassroots movements over the past several years. I’ve seen firsthand what working-class people can achieve through solidarity, organising, and activism.
I’m passionate about workers’ rights and conditions. I’d be honoured to represent my public sector colleagues on VBC. I want to see union membership grow, a strong and proud union and working-class identity fostered among members, and for members to be supported to step up, speak out, and win better conditions.
But real growth won’t happen without a strategy. That’s why I’m standing with A Voice for Members—a member-led campaign committed to rebuilding CPSU strength through a clear, active growth plan. That includes cutting fees so membership is more accessible, especially to those in insecure or lower-paid roles. It also means investing in grassroots organising and empowering members to lead campaigns in their workplaces.
Our union should be growing, not shrinking. It should be bold, democratic, and unafraid to fight. I believe A Voice for Members can do this.
Hayden Wilson
Wage Inspectorate Victoria
I’ve worked in the VPS for five years. I’m proud of the work we do, and I’m committed to the values that brought many of us here: solidarity, social justice, equality, and serving the public good.
These values don’t defend themselves, they need to be fought for. So do our rights at work.
That’s why I believe in a union that’s member-led, grassroots, and unafraid to take a stand. A union that resists cuts, pushes back against the erosion of our conditions, and fights not just to protect what we have, but to win something better.
When union power is concentrated at the top, it becomes disconnected from the realities of everyday workers. But when we build from the ground up – through collective action, strong workplace organising, and real member participation – we build power that can’t be ignored.
I’m standing with A Voice for Members because I want a union that’s more democratic, more accountable, and more effective. If elected, I’ll fight to keep our union strong, member-led, and always on the side of workers.
Hill Kuttner
DTP
I’m deeply passionate about workers’ rights and safety, and would be honoured to represent you on VBC in the Central Agencies electorate.
Before joining the VPS, I was a union delegate in a workplace with only two union members (including myself) and hostile management. Over two years, we built union density to nearly 100%. We even took strike action which delivered better working conditions. This experience gave me the skills I now use to support and empower my workmates every day.
I believe union power comes from members taking action as a collective, not just following directives from above. I want to help rebuild the democratic power of VPS workers by supporting workers to re-engaging and organise in their workplaces. Too often we’re left feeling like we’re on our own. I want to change that.
I’m proud to be part of A Voice for Members—a group of rank-and-file CPSU members fighting for a more democratic, transparent, and active union. Regardless of the election result we’ll keep pushing for change and fighting for better outcomes for members.
Laura Carroll
Shrine of Remembrance
Hi, I’m Laura. I’m a single parent, GenXer, graphic novelist, and I’m completing a WHS Cert IV in psychosocial hazards. I’m nominating for VBC because I care about the health of our union. Participatory democracy for the win!
I’ve worked for nine years at the Shrine of Remembrance – a small workplace delivering everything from veteran services to public education and custodianship of an iconic site.
The experience of working as a delegate to introduce the Shrine’s first EBA with alignment to VPS pay and conditions showed me that agency workers feel invisible in a big union – unsure if our work was understood, represented, or even noticed. It’s also shown me how vital it is to have an active union presence in every workplace.
Right now, many co-workers can’t afford to join, and many who are members don’t feel they get much in return. Fees are high, communication is poor, and decisions are made without real input.
That’s why I’m part of A Voice for Members – rank-and-file members fighting for a more democratic, transparent, and accessible union.
Max Ryan
VLHA
My name is Max. I’m a senior compliance officer at the Labour Hire Authority, where I’ve worked for the past 2.5 years. Our work aims to address exploitation of vulnerable workers and improve their conditions. This commitment to justice is what drew me to A Voice for Members and why I’m nominating for Branch Council.
I want to fight for a union that supports workers to get involved and be heard by leadership; is serious about growing membership so our collective power is felt across the public sector; understands that our struggle is linked to broader public sector fights—for teachers, nurses; and always puts members first in bargaining, regardless of which political party is across the table.
I believe A Voice for Members has a bold, clear vision to build the kind of union we need: democratic, strong, unafraid to take action, and driven by those who matter most— members.
I would love to represent you on Branch Council, build power with you, and help reclaim our union as a fighting force.
Nat Seddon-Smith
DPC
As a candidate from DJSIR, I’m running to make the Victorian CPSU Branch a genuine forum for members – where your issues are heard, and where democratic debate and representation are the norm, not the exception.
Right now, members feel shut out of union decisions. Bargaining happens behind closed doors, communication is top-down, and there’s little opportunity for meaningful input. This has to change.
We need a union that fights hard in negotiations, not one that signs off on weak deals without consulting members. We should never be left wondering how bargaining decisions were made, or who was even at the table.
I’m proud to be part of A Voice for Members – a growing group of CPSU members who want our union to be democratic, transparent, and member-led. We believe the power of the union lies with the members. We are committed to restoring that power from the bottom up.
Public servants across Victoria deserve a union that doesn’t just speak for them, but listens, involves, and fights with them. If elected, that’s what I’ll work to deliver.
Paul Kusmanoff
DJSIR
I have been a CPSU member for five years. I want to see our union thrive—by growing our membership and using our collective power to win better wages and conditions. I support A Voice for Members because competitive union democracy matters. We cannot thrive if our leadership stays complacent.
The last EBA showed us what happens when union leaders stop listening. Real wage cuts were accepted and members were shut out. I was disappointed not just by the outcome, but by the lack of transparency. Union members should be allowed to observe management meetings. That’s basic accountability.
I work as a survey data analyst, and have previously worked as an accountant in departments including the former DELWP and DET. If elected to Branch Council, I’ll bring strong quantitative skills to help design and analyse member surveys, and use data to support smarter, more democratic decisions.
Electorate 6: Barwon/South Western Region (4 seats)
Angela Clough
Agriculture Victoria (Ballarat)
We’ve had a tough few years since the last union election. A lot has changed in the way we work and in what we know is possible when given the opportunity. Our union must also change. It needs to become more responsive, more democratic, and more engaged with members, delivering the support and action people expect and deserve.
I’m standing for Branch Council with A Voice for Members to make sure we have a strong, clear voice in our region — one that reflects what members actually think, need, and care about.
I work and live in the Ballarat region. I want to hear your ideas for how to make your work and workplace a better part of your life. I believe flexible working arrangements are here to stay, and that our union should be leading the fight to protect and expand them.
I’ve worked across the region and in the public service for nearly 25 years. I understand we don’t just work in our communities — we live in them. Our workplaces should support that.
Cameron Reid
Corrections Victoria (Cherry Creek, Little River)
With 30 years of experience at Corrections Victoria across both adult corrections and youth justice, I’ve seen firsthand how critical issues affecting frontline staff are ignored by both CV and union leadership. I have a strong background in operations, emergency response, leadership and community engagement. I know how much better things could be if workers had a real say.
I’m running for Victorian Branch Council with A Voice for Members because I want to help build a union that listens to staff and acts when it counts. My focus is on genuine staff engagement, fair rights, decent pay and conditions, and holding management accountable. We need a union that doesn’t shy away from calling out what’s wrong. We need a union that will fight to fix things.
Jodi Peskett
WorkSafe (Geelong)
I’m Jodi Peskett from WorkSafe Victoria. I’ve been a proud CPSU member for four years. I want to be part of building a strong, democratic, and powerful union that fights for fair pay and conditions, and for our right to be safe at work.
I’m running for VBC to help achieve that goal and to represent workers like me who want to see real change. I’m passionate about occupational health and safety and bring practical industrial experience to my union work.
One of my core values is a deep commitment to collectivism. That means that if elected, I’ll work collaboratively and faithfully to represent the interests and views of members in my electorate — not just my own.
As a public servant, I believe our work is vital to the wellbeing of Victorians. To do it well we need to be well paid, properly resourced, safe, and empowered in our workplaces.
I’m running with A Voice for Members because I’m committed to working alongside you to make our union stronger.
Khristo Newall
TAC (Geelong)
I’ve worked in the community sector for over 20 years, across youth work, homelessness, mental health, disability, and now at the TAC supporting clients with complex injuries. I’m based in Torquay, where I live with my wife and two young kids.
Like many of you, I’ve seen the pressure on our work intensify while support and resources are cut back. I’ve always backed my union. But, I believe now is the time for change. We need a union that is member-led, democratic, and focused on building power from the ground up.
I’m proud to be nominating for Branch Council with A Voice for Members, because I want to help create a union where members drive the agenda. That means genuine transparency, active communication, and decisions that reflect what members want, not what gets decided behind closed doors.
If elected, I’ll push for open structures, support the growth of active delegate networks, and work with members to build strength across our workplaces.
Electorate 7: North Western Region (2 seats)
Justin Hogan
Loddon Prison Precinct (Castlemaine)
I’m Justin Hogan. I’ve worked at Loddon and Middleton prison for over seven years. During this time, I’ve witnessed concerning behaviours in both union and Corrections Victoria leadership. These experiences motivated me to seek positive change.
I’m running with A Voice for Members because I want to be part of a fresh team committed to fairness, transparency, and stronger leadership. As a union delegate for the past couple of years, I’ve built strong relationships with members, earned their respect, and encouraged new staff to join the CPSU by showing what real representation can look like. I’ve also faced frustration. Too often, requests for support go unanswered. This discourages members and damages trust in our union.
I believe current leadership has lost focus and become self-serving. Policies with serious flaws go unchallenged. Too many members feel voiceless. This must change.
I’m especially passionate about supporting members with disabilities, including those with dyslexia—because I have dyslexia myself. I know how important it is to have access to the right technology and support in the workplace.
Kelly Welsh
Loddon Prison Precinct (Castlemaine)
I’ve worked as a Prison Officer with Corrections Victoria for 15 plus years across many sites— maximum security to open camp. I’ve seen firsthand the failures of both CV leadership and our union leadership to stand up for staff.
As a delegate, I’ve earned the trust of my colleagues and rebuilt confidence in our local union group. But too often that trust breaks down when matters are escalated to the top. I’m running for Branch Council because we need a stronger, fairer union that backs frontline workers every time.
We’ve seen major operational changes forced through with little consultation, and a union that lets it happen. That has to change. I believe in a fair but strong approach—calling out poor decisions, defending our rights, and making sure staff welfare isn’t ignored.
As a recently nominated HSR, I’m especially focused on the mental health toll of our work and the lack of action. I’m running with A Voice for Members to be part of a team that listens, represents, and fights for members when they need it most.
Electorate 8: Gippsland Region (2 seats)
Charles Tonkin
EPA (Traralgon)
Hey there! I’m Charlie, a Senior Environment Protection Officer at the Environment Protection Authority in Traralgon.
In my 7 and half years at EPA I’ve worked as a delegate through enterprise agreements, whole-organisational restructures, all kinds of workplace change.
I have always stood up for members and kept their interests front and centre – whether you’re a delegate or leading a union movement, it’s the members you serve.
Increasingly though, we’re seeing the opposite. Decisions are made without members, and we’re getting next to no communication. Leadership seems more interested in saving face than creating change side by side with members.
I’m running with A Voice for Members because we need to turn that around. Our union should be fighting for us – with honesty, with transparency, with strength, with members leading the way. That’s the way CPSU should be.
I’m really excited about this movement and I’m proud at the prospect of standing as a just, strong, and experienced voice for Gippsland.
Virginia Dods
DE (Gippsland)
I have been a member of the CPSU and the SPSF before it since joining the Victorian public service in 1991. I’ve always been passionate about the rights of workers and have served as a union delegate in both the Department of Education and the former DHS (now DFFH). I was honoured to contribute to a workload review for Child Protection staff many years ago — and saddened that it became the first of many.
More recently, I supported staff through a major restructure in the Department of Education, helping to share information, answer questions, and advocate for transparency. I believe the union must play a far more active role during restructures, not just behind closed doors, but in public with members at the centre of every conversation.
I now work across Gippsland and have started advocating for broader community understanding of the challenges and strengths of the rural areas in our region. I’m running with A Voice for Members because I want to see a stronger, more accountable union. One that listens, informs, and organises with us, not over us.
Electorate 9: North Eastern Region (1 seat)
Unfortunately, we couldn’t find a candidate for North Eastern Region. If you are in this region, we’d love to chat with you anyway! If we win executive positions we want to know everything about how we can help members in the regions.
If you’re in North Eastern Region, we would also LOVE for you to vote for our executive candidates!