VOTE
1
VICTORIAN STATE ELECTION 2026
RAKESHRAIZADA
INDEPENDENT CANDIDATE
Upper House | Western Metropolitan Region
Service before self.
I am standing as an independent candidate for the Victorian Legislative Council, seeking to represent the people of the Western Metropolitan Region — motivated by a lifelong commitment to service, integrity, fairness, inclusion and practical leadership.
My guiding philosophy is rooted in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “the world is one family” — and in these timeless principles:
For many years I have contributed to Victoria's multicultural, community and not-for-profit sectors.
Director, International Service (2024–2027)
President — supporting people facing disadvantage: family-violence prevention, employment, blood & organ donation and community support.
Founder Director, Secretary & Public Officer
Founder Member & Adviser — Vedic knowledge, culture and universal wellbeing
Leadership and advisory roles with Women of Wyndham, JET Australia, JAF Australia and other community organisations.
“Leadership is not about holding a position — it is about turning responsibility into meaningful service.”
Community forums, Rotary projects and cultural celebrations: the work behind the words.
Extensive Australian and international experience in banking, finance, business, governance and management.
Senior leadership positions.
Executive roles across banking, energy and automotive.
Senior management at ANZ and NAB, then Head of Indian Banking and Country Head, South Asian Banking at CBA.
This experience has given me a strong understanding of financial services, business, international markets, multicultural communities and the economic challenges facing individuals, families and businesses.
Rotary International
Rotary International — International Service
Rotary
Victorian Multicultural Commission
Indian Sun
Business recognition
After decades of professional and community service, I believe I can bring something different to the Upper House.
Victoria's strength lies in its diversity, and in people from different backgrounds working together.
Supporting the local networks, volunteers and organisations that hold Western Metro together.
Prevention, early support and safety for every household.
Opportunity, mentoring and a real voice in decisions that affect them.
Every community respected, connected and able to participate fully.
Small business, community organisations and financial literacy for a fairer economy.
Responsible governance, with integrity and openness at its core.
Footy club barbecues, festivals and community halls: a few of the people I have been lucky to meet along the way.
On the barbecue at Werribee Football Club
Sharing the colours of Holi
With Wyndham Rotary barbecue volunteers
Catching up at a community hall
Celebrating Navratri together
With a Rotary club president
Meeting guests at a community function
At a BAPS community celebration
Meeting people at a multicultural gatheringI am not seeking public life simply to hold political office. I am standing because I believe my professional experience, community service and commitment to inclusive leadership can be put to further service for the people of Victoria.
VOTE 1 · RAKESH RAIZADA · UPPER HOUSE · WESTERN METRO
