Liam McNally
Justine Farrugia will be City of Melton’s newest councillor after the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) announced the results of the countback following Moira Deeming’s departure from Council.
Ms Deeming was elected to the Watts ward at Melton’s 2020 council election, and in December 2022 was elected to Victorian Parliament as a Member of the Legislative Council for
Western Metropolitan Region for the Liberal Party.
Her departure resulted in an extraordinary vacancy in Melton council, requiring a VEC countback of the 2020 election results.
Ms Farrugia was declared the successful candidate on Monday January 23 following the countback.
She will be officially sworn in as a councillor representing the Watts ward at a date yet to be disclosed by council.
Councillor-elect Justine Farrugia said she is “delighted” to be elected councillor for Melton City Council.
“I look forward to working with my fellow councillors and officers to deliver for our community,” she said.
“My priorities this term are delivering safer streets, better infrastructure, and more services for
our growing population, and I’m excited to work with a team all laser focused on delivering
this.”
Melton Mayor Lara Carli said council is “pleased” that Justine has “accepted the opportunity to represent our community and specifically residents in Watts Ward.”
“Justine joins us at an exciting time as Council plans for our city’s future,” she said.
“We welcome Justine to Council and look forward to working together for our community.”
