About ME
WHO IS OSCAR ONG?
UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE
BIOMECHANICAL ENGINEERING RESEARCHER
"COMMUNITY FIRST. ALWAYS."
My name is Oscar, and I’m running to represent Central Ward on the Adelaide City Council — because I care deeply about this city and the people who call it home.
I moved to Adelaide from Ipoh, Malaysia with the dream of building a better future — not just for myself, but for the community around me. Growing up in an Asian household, I was raised with a simple but powerful principle: leave things better than you found them. From a young age, I was taught that success isn’t just about achievement — it’s about making a positive impact on others.
In my early years living here, I saw firsthand the potential of this city — its people, its culture, and its promise. I experienced firsthand what it’s like to start fresh in a new city. I know the challenges of navigating systems that feel disconnected, and I’ve seen how easily people and small businesses can feel unheard. That’s what drives me to serve. But I also saw how much more we could achieve if we listened better, worked together, and focused on what truly matters.
EARLY YEARS IN ADELAIDE
At the University of Adelaide, I took my first steps into public service through student leadership. I served as President of the Adelaide University Student Represenatative Council and Adelaide University Union and lead the transformation into what is now YouX — a more modern, and student-focused organisation.
As the University Council Member, I worked on big-picture planning, including the early discussions around the university merger. Throughout, I fought for a better student experience — one that supports wellbeing, champions diversity, and gives every student a voice.
RECENT YEARS
My academic life is driven by the same purpose. As a researcher in biomedical engineering, I focus on developing technologies that prevent heart attacks and save lives. It’s a field that’s shown me how innovation, integrity, and empathy can change the world — and how much more we can achieve when community and science work hand in hand.
Adelaide has given me countless opportunities, purpose, and belonging. I’m running for Adelaide City Council because I want to give back. I want to be a voice for the people who make this city vibrant — students, workers, families, and small businesses. My goal is simple: a safer, more affordable, more inclusive city — one that delivers real outcomes, not red tape.
Let’s build a better Adelaide, together.
MAKING AN IMPACT
Frequently
Asked
Questions
What does Oscar stand for?
- Putting downward pressure on council rates
- Supporting local businesses and easing the cost of doing business
- Creating cleaner, safer streets
- Making council decisions more transparent and inclusive
- Building a vibrant, future-ready city with room for everyone
Oscar believes cities should serve their communities — not create roadblocks. Whether it’s reducing red tape for small businesses, making streets safer, or keeping rates fair, Oscar is committed to making council practical, transparent, and people-focused.
How does Oscar plan to support local businesses?
Oscar knows many small and family-run businesses are struggling with rising costs and rigid council rules. He wants to simplify approvals, reduce unnecessary fees (like outdoor dining charges), and bring life back to the city with multicultural markets, night trade, and pop-ups that make it easier to start and sustain a business.
What makes Oscar different from other candidates?
Oscar brings both grassroots leadership and technical expertise. He’s someone who listens first, acts with integrity, and understands how decisions impact real people. With lived experience as a migrant, a student, a researcher, and a community organiser, Oscar brings a fresh, balanced perspective grounded in empathy and results.
- Volunteer to help letterbox or knock on doors
- Spread the word to friends and neighbours
- Reach out directly via email or phone
Every bit of support helps bring people-powered change to the council.
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Authorised by O. Ong, 29 Angas St Adelaide.