A former football champion is running for mayor in Melbourne.

Former Carlton football player Anthony Koutoufides has announced his candidacy for Lord Mayor of Melbourne. Despite the rainy weather at his campaign launch, Koutoufides is determined to bring new life to the city. "For a long time, Melbourne has been recognized as the world's most liveable city, but it's not living up to that title anymore," he stated.

Koutoufides believes that the current state of the city, with its safety concerns and homelessness, is evident in the empty streets and struggling businesses. "Just ask the cafes and restaurants, they're all struggling," he pointed out. With 300 games under his belt, Koutoufides is no stranger to pressure, but he admitted that running for office is a new challenge for him.

While his greatest achievement may have been winning the premiership with Carlton in 1995, Koutoufides is now focused on improving the lives of the people of Melbourne. "I don't need the spotlight, I already had my moment of glory. This is about the city and its people," he stated. The 51-year-old is running as an independent candidate and will be up against incumbent Nick Reece and former deputy mayor Arron Wood.

Koutoufides acknowledged that this campaign will push him out of his comfort zone, but he believes that this is where growth happens. "It's not easy, but I'm willing to take on this challenge for the sake of Melbourne and its citizens," he said. The upcoming council elections in October will give the people of Melbourne the chance to vote for their next Lord Mayor.

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