James Merlino joins the GSEM Board

Greater South East Melbourne (GSEM) is delighted to announce that James Merlino is joining GSEM as an Independent Board member.

GSEM’s other Independent Board members are GSEM Chair Simon McKeon AO and Margaret Fitzherbert.

Greater South East Melbourne Chair Simon McKeon said:

“We are delighted to welcome James Merlino to the GSEM Board as an Independent Director.

“As Deputy Premier, James provided exemplary leadership and as Acting Premier served the people of Victoria during one of the most challenging periods in our history.

“It is a sign of GSEM’s effectiveness and standing that James has agreed to serve on the Board as an Independent Member.

“James knows the southeast well and is committed to improving the lives of all GSEM residents as well as working towards creating jobs and maintaining the liveability, sustainability and well-being of the region.

“James joins myself and our other Independent Board Member Margaret Fitzherbert. Margaret also served our community in State parliament.

Mr Merlino said:

“I am delighted to be joining the board of one of the most effective and important local government groups in Victoria.

“I have had a long association with local government, having served on council and know first-hand that when local government works in partnership with residents and community groups the impact that good councils have on local communities is immense.

“GSEM has taken the principle to a high level, working as it does with the community, but also including business and industry as well as the state and federal governments.

“Local government has very close links to the community it serves. I have long been of the view that the very best outcomes are achieved when state and federal governments work in genuine partnership with local government

“GSEM proves that the model can work and work well. I look forward to working with GSEM towards even greater success for the region and all of our residents.”