Sally Capp has announced she will step down as Lord Mayor of Melbourne after six years in the role.
Capp, who was elected in 2018, announced this morning “with mixed emotions” that she would not contest the October 2024 local government election, but would instead step down mid-year.
“I love this job – it is an honour and a privilege to represent the people of Melbourne,” she said. “I have given everything to this role and, as you know, I like to work at full speed and full time – and I believe that anyone contesting an election needs to be fully committed for a full term. “I have decided that at the age of 56, having spent my 50s so far at the Town Hall, it’s time for me to seek new opportunities to take me into my next decade.”
Capp, a political independent, is a former solicitor, the first woman to be appointed as Victoria’s Agent General in London, and was a director of Collingwood Football Club until 2009. She was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for services to the City of Melbourne earlier this year.
Capp said there had been “profound challenges” during her tenure, including terrorist attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Despite this, together we have driven the revitalisation of this great city – it has become Australia’s largest city, the third most liveable city in the world and the fourth best student city in the world,” she said.
“I know hardship is still a reality for many business owners and residents, but the upward trajectory is undeniable. We are once again the engine of Victoria’s economy and a major contributor on the national stage.
“I am very proud of our achievements as a Council over the past six years.”
She praised the work of residents, traders and stakeholders in contributing to the council’s agenda.
Capp cited projects such as the Queen Victoria Market precinct redevelopment, the Power Melbourne battery project and the Make Room housing development as some of the highlights of her term.
