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Warrnambool City Council Mayor Cr Ben Blain has been appointed to the Victorian Government’s Local Government Mayoral Advisory Panel for 2025.
Cr Blain is one of nine mayors from across Victoria making up the panel, which is chaired by Minister for Lo-cal Government Nick Staikos.
The panel provides high-level advice on legislative, regulatory, strategic and policy issues that affect Victori-an councils. This year's panel is expected to focus on governance and other key issues of concern to local government.
“It’s a privilege and a great opportunity to be appointed to the panel,” Cr Blain said.
“It’s great to have the ear of Minister Staikos to not only put forward a Warrnambool perspective but also to raise issues that matter to the South West region.
“The panel has a chance to really help shape government policy and I’m looking forward to contributing the regional city point of view to discussions.”
The mayors have been selected from urban, regional and rural communities across the state, ensuring that a diversity of perspectives is brought to the forum.
Mr Staikos met the panel for the first time last week for the first of three official meetings to be held this year.
“This panel brings together diverse local leadership from every corner of Victoria. Together, we’ll be focusing on keeping our local government responsive, resilient and deeply connected to the people it serves,” Mr Staikos said.
“This panel plays a key role in advising the Victorian Government, and I’m pleased to work alongside these mayors to strengthen outcomes for communities statewide.”
Along with Cr Blain members of the 2025 panel are:
• Cr Louise Crawford, Port Phillip City Council
• Cr Simone Zmood, Glen Eira City Council
• Cr Paul Klisaris, Monash City Council
• Cr Jack Kowarzik, Cardinia Shire Council
• Cr Steve Abboushi, Melton City Council
• Cr Jarrod Bell, Hume City Council
• Cr Rosie Annear, Mt Alexander Shire Council
• Cr Karen Hyslop, Northern Grampians Shire Council.