I’m Yashaswini Kanakagiri — an independent voice and a passionate advocate for real people and practical solutions.
With a background spanning banking, corporate finance, and public service, I’ve spent years working on the ground with communities across Victoria. I understand the struggles many families face with rising costs, housing stress, mental health, and accessing support services — because I’ve been there helping them, one case at a time.
Having worked within the Government, I’ve gained valuable insight into how policies are shaped, and more importantly, how they impact people’s daily lives. I’ve worked across state and federal levels, supporting communities on everything from immigration and NDIS to Centrelink and housing assistance. That experience has shown me both the strengths and gaps in our system — and the urgent need for independent voices in Parliament.
- Worked within the Government across multiple portfolios — supporting constituents, delivering public services, and engaging with community leaders.
- Experienced in policy engagement, casework, and campaign delivery with a deep understanding of state and federal responsibilities.
- Committed to inclusive, ethical, and compassionate governance that puts people before politics.
With over a decade of experience in Australia’s banking and finance sector, I’ve worked at major institutions including ANZ, NAB, Westpac, and boutique finance firms. My focus has always been on:
- Client Advocacy & Ethical Recovery
- Debt Solutions & Financial Strategy
- Portfolio & Settlement Management
These roles deepened my understanding of the financial pressures facing everyday Australians — and strengthened my belief that economic policy must work for people, not just numbers.
🧭 Strategic Planning
I believe good ideas are only as strong as the plans behind them. Whether it’s helping someone resolve a complex financial issue or pushing for policy change, I focus on outcomes that are practical, sustainable, and built for the long term.
👥 Community Engagement
You can’t represent a community you don’t listen to. I’ve spent years working directly with people from all walks of life — hearing their stories, understanding their struggles, and turning that into meaningful support. I will always keep the door open and the conversation going.
💼 Financial Recoveries & Support
Having worked in Australia’s biggest banks, I’ve seen first-hand how financial pressure affects families and small businesses. I’ve helped people get back on track — not with judgment, but with compassion. That experience fuels my drive to make economic policy work for real people, not just the headlines.
🤝 Bringing People Together
Whether it’s working with government departments, local councils, or small business owners, I know how to bring people to the table and find common ground. I believe in respect, collaboration, and building solutions that benefit everyone — not just a select few.
Mental Health & Holistic Wellbeing: We must expand Medicare-funded mental health sessions, embed meditation into schools, aged care, and communities, and provide long-term mental health care that’s accessible to all.
Cost-of-Living Relief: It’s time to take real action on energy bills, housing affordability, and food prices — so that families and small businesses can breathe again.
Education Reform: Every child deserves access to quality education and emotional support. I’ll advocate for modernised school facilities and holistic mental wellness programs.
Multicultural & Inclusive Victoria: As a multilingual advocate of Indian heritage, I understand the needs of diverse communities. I support culturally respectful policies that embrace Victoria’s diversity.
Small Business Support: Let’s reduce red tape, improve access to grants, and give local businesses the support they need to thrive.
Vote 1 for Group T – Independent Senate Candidates for Victoria
Vote 1 for Group T – Independent Senate Candidates for Victoria