I am honoured to be elected as the new ALGA President.
It’s a privilege to accept this long-standing leadership role to advocate on behalf of Australia’s 537 councils.
By working together and with all levels of government, I want to see councils and communities not just survive, but thrive!
I’m very excited to get started and build on ALGA’s advocacy achievements. We need to work and engage with all levels of government to address the key problems facing communities in Australia.
As you may know, I was born and raised in Gladstone, in central Queensland, and my council career has spanned nearly 25 years. Watch this video to learn more about my passion and service to local government:
Last week, I spoke to several national media outlets, including The Australian newspaper to outline my advocacy agenda, which includes securing serious federal funding increases for councils – not just pocket money! My major focus will be on advocating for more support so councils can remain financially sustainable.
I also pay tribute to former ALGA President Linda Scott for her significant contribution to this sector – and congratulate new Vice Presidents councillor Karen Chappel AM JP, from the Shire of Morawa in Western Australia, and councillor Darriea Turley AM, from Broken Hill City Council in New South Wales.
I look forward to working alongside the Vice Presidents, ALGA’s Board and your councils to build stronger, vibrant and more liveable communities.
Annual conferences
This week, as part of my first official engagement as President, I’m excited to meet Western Australian councils at the WALGA annual conference in Perth and I thank Karen Chappel for hosting me.
I’m also looking forward to presenting to Queensland councils at the LGAQ conference in Brisbane later this month.
Please say hello if you see me at these events. I look forward to meeting you.