Rifai A Raheem is a dedicated community advocate with over 30 years of volunteer service, including 17 years living in Tarneit district with his wife and children. Deeply committed to social equity and inclusion. He had led major grassroots projects such as the Melbourne Grand Mosque and the WIC Early Learning Centre in Tarneit, a $10 million initiative mainly funded by the community.
As a long-time unionist, Rifai has personally recruited over 1,600 members and organised numerous campaigns to improve conditions for workers in the tertiary education sector. His strong presence is widely recognised in the West, particularly through his work at Victoria University.
With academic qualifications in Agricultural Science and Entrepreneurship, Rifai brings practical expertise to addressing local challenges, empowering communities, and protecting the environment.
Rifai’s grassroots leadership and deep local ties make him a strong, trusted voice for Tarneit.
Tarneit and the West Deserve Better Public Transport
Residents in Tarneit and across Melbourne’s west are facing a growing public transport crisis. As one of the fastest-growing regions in the state, our community is expanding rapidly, but the transport infrastructure simply hasn’t kept up.
Improving public transport requires long-term planning, but there are immediate steps that can and must be taken now. The most urgent and practical first step is increasing the frequency and reliability of local bus services.
Better Healthcare Facilities
Tarneit is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in Wyndham, yet its health infrastructure has not kept pace with its population boom. This imbalance is becoming increasingly difficult for residents, families, and frontline health services.
We need to reduce pressure on existing hospitals, improve emergency response times, and ensure equitable access to healthcare for a rapidly growing community.
More education opportunities
Tarneit and Melbourne’s western suburbs are among the fastest-growing regions in Australia, yet investment in higher education has not kept pace. The lack of local universities and adequate TAFE facilities is creating real barriers for young people and holding the region back.
Investment in these facilities is not just about education, it’s about economic development, social equity, and community empowerment. When young people can study locally, they are more likely to work locally, contribute to their communities, and help build a stronger regional economy.