Sat, 17th, Oct, 2026: Christina Zigouras , Independent Candidate for Malvern (2026 Victorian State Election)

 

Running as an independent in traditionally “safe” seats, local community priorities in Malvern, housing/heritage balance, crime, climate, and integrity in state politics

Small business owner, building designer, and educator. She lives locally in Malvern East.

Zigouras has previously run as a member of Labor and of the Greens for other seats.

Running as an Independent for the seat of Malvern in the Victorian state election. Makes a big deal of saying she is not backed by Climate 200 in the way that Monique Ryan is.

         “Safe seats don’t produce strong representation—they produce political neglect.” She emphasises representing local residents rather than party bosses, caucus, or big business.

Policy Pillars:

Integrity & Transparency: Transparent, honest representation and restoring trust in parliament.

Tough & Smart on Crime: Stronger policing on the beat coupled with evidence-based rehabilitation to address repeat offending.

Housing & Affordability: Expanding housing stock while preserving neighbourhood character.
Economic Growth & Small Business: Support for local traders, skill-building, and economic growth in retail strips.
Climate Action: Practical local environmental initiatives, waste reduction, and clean energy transition.

Malvern has historically been considered a safe Liberal seat held by senior opposition figures, but incumbent and former Liberal leader Michael O’Brien is retiring at the election. Amelia Hamer is running for the Liberals. The rise of community independents in inner-east Melbourne reflects a broader shift among voters seeking alternatives to major party polarisation.

Welcome back to Saturday Magazine on JOY 94.9. Can a community independent turn one of Melbourne’s historically safest electorates into a contested battlefield? Christina Zigouras is a local small business owner, building designer, educator, and Independent candidate for Malvern in the upcoming state election. Christina, welcome to Saturday Magazine

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