Dear petition supporters,
Thank you for standing up for a greener, safer, and more vibrant Footscray!
Together, over 600 of us have called for the long-abandoned Little Saigon Market site in Footscray to be transformed into public open space — but now, we need one final push to make our voices impossible to ignore!
Here’s the reality:
The State Government’s rezoning of Footscray as a Major Metropolitan Activity Centre (MMAC) will bring over 50,000 new residents, and the new hospital will double annual visitors to 200,000. Millions in developer contributions have been collected and set aside to offset this growth. But Council is yet to make a meaningful investment in public open space to support this growth. The State Government is due to announce it's budget in the coming weeks. If nothing is done, open space per person will plummet from 40sqm to just 15sqm.
Meanwhile, the derelict Little Saigon Market site has sat empty since 2016 — a magnet for crime, dumping, and decay. We now have a rare opportunity to change that. The site is on the market under the instructions of an insolvency firm, but if Council or State Government fails to act before the EOI deadline on 9 April, it will likely fall into the hands of another developer and be landbanked again for years to come.
Here’s how you can help — right now:
- Email your representatives — your local MPs, the Minister for Local Government (Nick Staikos), and Maribyrnong City Council (elected councillors & the CEO). Demand urgent action to acquire this site for public use!
- Share the petition on social media with a message about why it matters to you — amplify our collective voice.
- Tag your local councillors and MPs online — ask where they stand and why they’re silent. However many MPs either delete or hide comments.
- Show up at Council’s public meeting on 15 April to demand answers — even though it's after the EOI closes, we must show them the community is watching.
- We’re so close to achieving something truly transformational — but we need to ensure our voices are heard!
Below are some suggested call-to-actions, however it's more meaningful if you let people know why this change is necessary in your own words.
Let’s make it impossible for the decision-makers to ignore the community any longer. Together, we can secure a lasting legacy for Footscray.
With thanks and urgency,
Thomas Foreman
3011
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Ms. Celia Haddock
celia.haddock@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au; CEOs.office@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Maribyrnong City Council
🔹 Ms. Haddock, the community is calling on you to demonstrate decisive leadership and accountability by acting immediately to acquire the Little Saigon Market site for public open space.
With Footscray undergoing rapid densification and over 50,000 new residents projected under MMAC rezoning, Council has a legal and moral obligation to invest in livability and green infrastructure. Council’s Open Space Reserve Fund, built from developer contributions, exists specifically for this purpose — yet despite multiple community requests, Council has failed to transparently report on its availability or plans for its use.
This site has sat derelict since 2016. It has become a magnet for antisocial behaviour, economic stagnation, and public frustration. You now have a rare opportunity — and the statutory mechanisms — to prevent another decade of neglect and instead deliver a transformative community asset.
We urge you to act immediately before the EOI closes on 9 April 2025. Do not allow another speculative developer to landbank this vital site. Use the Open Space Reserve to secure it for public good — while you still can.
Lord Mayor Cr. Pradeep Tiwari
Cr.Tiwari@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Deputy Mayor Cr. Bernadette Thomas, Sheoak Ward Councillor
Cr.Thomas@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
& elected councillors:
Councillors@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
🔹 Councillors, the time to act is now. You have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the long-derelict Little Saigon Market site into desperately needed public open space in the heart of Footscray — a suburb that is already underserved by green infrastructure and is on the cusp of massive population growth.
The State Government’s rezoning of Footscray as a Major Metropolitan Activity Centre (MMAC) will bring over 50,000 new residents and the new hospital is expected to double year visitors to 200,000. Yet, Council has made no meaningful investment in new public open space to support this growth. Derelict sites like this one are fuelling antisocial behaviour, business decline, and public dissatisfaction.
As elected representatives, your mandate is to serve the public interest — not to defer responsibility or allow strategic sites to fall into the hands of speculative developers once again.
The Open Space Reserve Fund, built from developer contributions, exists for precisely this purpose: to acquire land for community benefit. The public deserves transparency and action. The EOI for this site closes 2PM, 9 April 2025 — delay is not an option.
We urge you to stand with your community and commit to purchasing this site for permanent public open space. Deliver the livable, green, safe Footscray that your constituents expect — and deserve.
Katie Hall MP
Katie.Hall@parliament.vic.gov.au
State Member for Footscray (Victorian Parliament)
🔹 Katie, as the local MP and a passionate advocate for Footscray, now is the time to deliver on your prior commitments to end landbanking and support public space revitalisation. You personally petitioned to activate the Little Saigon site — now that it’s on the market under insolvency, your leadership is crucial to ensure it’s not lost to private speculation once again.
The upcoming 2025–26 State Budget is the moment to fund the acquisition and transformation of this site into green infrastructure for our community. With over 50,000 new residents expected under MMAC rezoning, Footscray urgently needs livability investment — not just more density.
We urge you to secure budget support to acquire the Little Saigon Market site as public open space and restore Footscray’s heart.
Dr. Daniel Mulino MP
Daniel.Mulino.MP@aph.gov.au
Federal Member for Fraser (Australian Parliament) Election: Saturday, 3 May 2025
🔹 Dr. Mulino, with the federal election just days away, Footscray residents are demanding bold leadership to restore liveability and community pride in our growing suburb. The derelict Little Saigon site has been left to rot for nearly a decade. Its revitalisation into a green, multicultural space is a shovel-ready project that aligns with federal goals around urban resilience, cultural infrastructure, and inclusive community development.
As our representative in Canberra, we are calling on you to commit federal funding and advocate for intergovernmental collaboration to secure the site. This is an opportunity to show federal Labor’s commitment to Footscray — a safe seat that still deserves investment, transparency, and vision.
Please pledge support before 3 May and help secure this space for future generations.
Hon. Nick Staikos MP
minister.staikos@dgs.vic.gov.au; Nick.Staikos@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Local Government
🔹 Minister Staikos, I urge you to urgently intervene and support the acquisition of the long-abandoned Little Saigon Market site in Footscray for desperately needed public open space — before the EOI closes on 9 April 2025. As Minister for Local Government, you are uniquely placed to hold Maribyrnong City Council accountable for their inaction, failure to disclose how developer contributions have been allocated, and the lack of transparency around the Open Space Reserve Fund.
The Hon. Harriet Shing MP
harriet.shing@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Housing and Building, Minister for the Suburban Rail Loop, Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts
🔹 Minister, securing public land in Footscray is crucial to balance the impacts of high-density housing developments. Green infrastructure not only promotes housing equality but also enhances community resilience and environmental sustainability. Your support for acquiring the Little Saigon site is vital.
The Hon. Sonya Kilkenny MP
sonya.kilkenny@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Planning
🔹Minister, with the Expression of Interest closing on 9 April, immediate intervention is required. Strategic planning must balance urban density with liveability. Securing the Little Saigon site as green public land aligns with your department's policies on sustainable urban development.
The Hon. Anthony Carbines MP
minister.carbines@justice.vic.gov.au; Anthony.Carbines@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Police, Minister for Community Safety, Minister for Victims, Minister for Racing
🔹Minister, derelict sites like the current Little Saigon location can attract antisocial behavior. Transforming this area into a well-designed, active public space will enhance community safety and deter crime, aligning with your commitment to public security.
The Hon. Natalie Suleyman MP
minister.suleyman@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Veterans, Minister for Small Business and Employment, Minister for Youth
🔹Minister, activating the Little Saigon site will increase foot traffic and improve the amenity of the Footscray Mall, directly benefiting surrounding small businesses and contributing to local economic recovery. Your support is crucial for this revitalization effort.
Hon. Enver Erdogan MP
minister.erdogan@justice.vic.gov.au; enver.erdogan@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice
🔹Minister, abandoned sites like the Little Saigon Market can become hotspots for antisocial behavior, negatively impacting youth and community well-being. Supporting its transformation into a vibrant public space will contribute to crime prevention and positive youth engagement.
The Hon. Danny Pearson MP
danny.pearson@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs, Minister for Finance
🔹Minister Pearson, I urge you to prioritise economic revitalisation in the inner west by supporting the urgent public acquisition of the derelict Little Saigon Market site in Footscray. Turning this neglected eyesore into public open space would create jobs, support local businesses, and inject life into a struggling activity centre. With the EOI closing on 9 April 2025, there is no time to waste. Your leadership is critical to directing the financial levers of government toward long-overdue urban renewal in Footscray.
Hon. Ingrid Stitt MP
ingrid.stitt@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs
🔹Minister Stitt, I urge you to support the urgent acquisition of the Little Saigon Market site in Footscray — a space that can be transformed into green, multicultural public infrastructure. Your leadership across mental health, ageing, and multicultural affairs is vital. This public park would offer a safe, inclusive space that promotes wellbeing, reduces isolation for older residents, and celebrates the rich cultural diversity of one of Victoria’s most vibrant communities. Please ensure this opportunity is not lost when the EOI closes on 9 April 2025.
The Hon. Gabrielle Williams MP
gabrielle.williams@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Government Services, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Public and Active Transport
🔹Minister, the Footscray community demands transparency regarding open space funds and planning decisions. Ensuring the government's support for acquiring the Little Saigon site will restore public trust and demonstrate a commitment to addressing community needs.
The Hon. Colin Brooks MP
officeminbrooks@ecodev.vic.gov.au; colin.brooks@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Minister for Creative Industries
🔹Minister, transforming the derelict Little Saigon site into a vibrant community and creative space will honor Footscray's rich multicultural and industrial heritage. Investing in this project demonstrates a commitment to fostering inclusive, innovation-supportive infrastructure that stimulates local industries.
The Hon. Mary-Anne Thomas MP
minister.health@health.vic.gov.au; mary-anne.thomas@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Health, Minister for Ambulance Services
🔹Minister, access to green spaces is a proven determinant of physical and mental health. As Footscray's population grows, investing in the Little Saigon site as a public park will promote active, healthy lifestyles and reduce healthcare burdens.
The Hon. Lizzie Blandthorn MP
Lizzie.Blandthorn@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Children, Minister for Disability
🔹Minister, families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities in Footscray urgently need accessible green spaces amidst increasing urban density. Supporting the acquisition of the Little Saigon site will ensure an inclusive environment for intergenerational recreation and community connection.
The Hon. Ben Carroll MP
reception.carroll@minstaff.vic.gov.au; ben.carroll@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Education, Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC
🔹Minister, the children and students of Footscray require safe, accessible outdoor spaces to support their education and well-being. Advocating for the acquisition of the Little Saigon site will provide essential social infrastructure that promotes active learning and community engagement.
The Hon. Steve Dimopoulos MP
reception.dimopoulos@deeca.vic.gov.au; steve.dimopoulos@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Environment, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Minister for Outdoor Recreation
🔹Minister, revitalising the Little Saigon site into a destination for cultural and community events will boost local tourism and provide venues for sports and outdoor recreation. This transformation aligns with your portfolio's objectives of enhancing environmental and community assets.
The Hon. Natalie Hutchins MP
minofficehutchins@ecodev.vic.gov.au; Natalie.Hutchins@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Government Services, Minister for Treaty and First Peoples, Minister for Prevention of Family Violence, Minister for Women
🔹Minister, preserving the Little Saigon site as a space for safe gatherings and community programs will promote social inclusion and support multicultural engagement. Your backing is essential to prevent the loss of this opportunity for community cohesion.
The Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio MP
lily.dambrosio@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Climate Action, Minister for Energy and Resources
🔹Minister, local climate action begins with sustainable urban planning. Securing the Little Saigon site as public parkland will contribute to urban cooling, biodiversity, and improved air quality in Footscray, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship.
The Hon. Jacyln Symes MP
jaclyn.symes@parliament.vic.gov.au; jaclyn.symes@minstaff.vic.gov.au;
Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Regional Development
🔹Treasurer, utilising both the Maribyrnong City Council’s Open Space Reserve funds & State Government budget to acquire the Little Saigon site is a fiscally responsible decision that will prevent the permanent loss of potential public land to private development. This investment aligns with prudent financial management and community benefit.
Hon. Melissa Horne MP
minister.horne@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Ports and Freight, Minister for Roads and Road Safety
Minister for Health Infrastructure
🔹Minister Horne, I urge you to champion the public acquisition of the Little Saigon Market site as vital health infrastructure for the west. Access to green space is a proven determinant of community health, especially in high-density urban areas like Footscray. With increasing road congestion and freight traffic in the inner west, residents deserve accessible, safe, and healthy public places to offset the impacts of urban stress. You can help deliver an outcome that supports physical and mental health while improving urban liveability — but action is needed before the EOI closes on 9 April 2025.
The Hon. Ros Spence MP
ros.spence@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Community Sport, Minister for Carers and Volunteers, Minister for Agriculture
🔹Minister, endorsing the community's initiative to convert the Little Saigon site into active green space will provide much-needed facilities for sport, recreation, and community gatherings, benefiting carers, volunteers, and all residents.
Hon. Gayle Tierney MP
gayle.tierney@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water
🔹Minister Tierney, I urge you to back the acquisition of the Little Saigon Market site for urgently needed public open space in Footscray. As Minister for Water, you understand the importance of green infrastructure for cooling cities, supporting stormwater management, and improving environmental resilience. And as Minister for Skills, this redevelopment could support skills training through landscaping, sustainability, and construction programs — benefiting local TAFE students and apprentices. Please act before the EOI closes on 9 April 2025.
The Hon. Jacinta Allan MP
jacinta.allan@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Premier
🔹 Premier, your government's rezoning of Footscray for high-density development necessitates immediate investment in public amenities to maintain liveability. Acquiring the Little Saigon Market site for public use aligns with your commitment to balanced urban growth and community well-being.