Nick Russian
Lord Mayor Candidate
Nick Russian is one of Melbourne’s most respected hospitality and entertainment entrepreneurs, and is the only mayoral candidate with a business in the Melbourne CBD. He understands and relates to what Melburnians are going through in these challenging, and in many ways, sad times in the world’s most liveable city.
Michael Burge OAM
Deputy Lord Mayor Candidate
Michael is optimistic, dedicated, and passionate about the City of Melbourne. Michael is an Order of Australia recipient and cares about improving the Mental Health, Wellbeing, Safety and Heritage of our diverse Melbourne community. Michael has an extensive Leadership background running businesses, medical legal, intellectual property, protective services, lecturing, industry mentor roles and presenting on radio and television.
Philip Le Liu
Cr Philip Le Liu is a current councillor on the Melbourne City council and a local resident. In the last 4 years, he has voted and advocated for more financial support for local businesses, giving residents more say in their rates, and supported students during the lockdown. He also voted firmly against having an injecting room in the city (regardless of where it is) and a pill testing trial in the city.
Serena Lu Jiang
Serena is an entrepreneur and community leader with extensive experience across hospitality, export trading, brand marketing and the not-for-profit sectors. With her expertise in Asia, youth development and communication, Serena Jiang will bring creativity and young female leadership to the city council and make Melbourne a safe, smart and sustainable city.
Darin Schade
Darin has lived in Melbourne for 30 years. His corporate career has prepared him for negotiating the bureaucracy of local government, and the years he has spent operating his own small businesses in the
Melbourne CBD helped him to understand other business owners in the area and the challenges they face.
Lauren Sherson
Lauren advocates for ‘healthy minds and healthy business’ - increasing social connectedness and driving local business activity. She has a Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, lectured at University
and started and sold businesses since she was 8. Her Covid response has been proactive - starting four new businesses that address
local issues. Lauren is also on the Board of Self Employed Australia.