Jess Whittaker is a lifelong resident of Wollongong, having grown up in Bulli and now residing in Port Kembla. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wollongong.

Whittaker is a paramedic working out of Dapto and has been actively involved in environmental advocacy and community service in the area.

Greens Candidate:

Whittaker is the Greens lead candidate for Ward 3 on Wollongong City Council. She announced her candidacy for Lord Mayor and Ward 3 in the upcoming Wollongong City Council elections.

Advocacy and Community Involvement:

Whittaker has organized beach cleanups and tree planting days, volunteered with Our Community Project, and participated in the primary ethics program at Port Kembla Public School. She is impressed by the achievements of Greens Councillors in Wards 1 and 2 and aims to bring similar benefits to Ward 3.

Paramedic and Community Activist:

Whittaker has worked as a paramedic for 11 years, gaining insights into the importance of a strong community. In 2020, she was awarded the Rotary Emergency Services Community Award.

University and Policy Experience:

Before joining the University of Wollongong in 2009, Whittaker worked as a Senior Ministerial Policy Advisor for State and Federal Governments. She ran an infrastructure research centre at the University for 13 years.

Environmental Advocacy:

Whittaker is committed to environmental issues, advocating for the implementation of the Lake Illawarra plan and promoting urban greening, safe footpaths, and cycle routes. She emphasizes the importance of developing renewable energy industries in Wollongong.

Housing and Community Development:

Whittaker advocates for affordable and sustainable housing, aiming to create connected villages where residents can live close to their workplaces. She supports investments in arts and culture and improving local infrastructure, such as building more footpaths and playgrounds.

Transportation and Safety:

Whittaker prioritizes making Wollongong a bike-friendly city with safe pedestrian crossings and accessible routes to schools. She supports the introduction of a free hydrogen-powered shuttle bus for the southern suburbs.

Community Projects:

Whittaker has been involved in numerous community projects and initiatives, demonstrating her commitment to improving the quality of life in Wollongong. She aims to continue these efforts by securing funding for local projects and promoting sustainable development.

Greens Achievements:

The Greens have set ambitious targets for emissions reduction and cycling infrastructure, and have doubled the budget for building new footpaths. They have also rolled out a food waste collection program (FOGO) and planted over 5,000 new trees in parks and suburban streets.

ess Whittaker's dedication to environmental advocacy, community service, and sustainable development reflects her commitment to making Wollongong a better place to live. As a Greens candidate, she aims to bring fresh ideas and strong leadership to the City Council, focusing on creating a vibrant, connected, and environmentally sustainable community.