City of Greater Geraldton election candidates: Tim Milnes back to crack down on crime and uphold family values

Tim Milnes is no stranger to being in campaign mode.

After an unsuccessful tilt as the Liberal candidate for the seat of Geraldton at the State election in March, Mr Milnes has returned to the public arena — this time nominating for the City of Greater Geraldton council.

After 18 years calling Geraldton home and raising four children here with his wife, Mr Milnes is standing for the council because, as he puts it, “our community deserves better, particularly when it comes to public safety”.

Mr Milnes brings to the race a rare combination of professional and lived experience. A clinical psychologist and lawyer with more than 20 years in practice, he has worked across youth justice, regional prisons, courts, and social services.

He also previously ran a small business locally, giving him direct insight into the challenges and opportunities Geraldton families and business owners face.

“This unique perspective has shown me both the causes of crime and practical solutions that actually work,” Mr Milnes said.

“I’ve seen first-hand how the right interventions can transform lives and communities.”

While this is his first run at local government, Mr Milnes said the council was where meaningful community-level decisions were made.

“I’m committed to bringing professional expertise, regional focus, and proven problem-solving to council,” he said.

“Geraldton has incredible potential. We just need leadership willing to make the tough decisions to realise it.”

For him, addressing Geraldton’s crime problem is the most urgent priority.

“My priorities are clear: tackling Geraldton’s crime problem head-on through evidence-based approaches that address root causes while ensuring immediate community safety,” Mr Milnes said.

“This means supporting our police, supporting our businesses, prioritising youth programs that work, and creating pathways that break the cycle of offending.”

Mr Milnes believes regional representation is essential to achieving lasting change.

“Too often, decisions affecting Geraldton are made without understanding our unique challenges and strengths,” he said.

“Having practised here privately whilst building deep community connections, I understand what local families need: safe streets, strong schools, and real opportunities for our youth and businesses.”

Mr Milnes said his background gave him the tools to help “bridge the gap between enforcement and prevention”.

“We need councillors who can analyse complex problems and implement practical solutions, not just talk about them,” he said.

Family values are central to his motivation for running.

“With two children studying medicine and nursing in Perth, one preparing for agribusiness after farm experience, and another still at home, I’m invested in Geraldton’s future,” Mr Milne said.

“Every family deserves to feel safe in their neighbourhood and confident in their children’s prospects.”