Abhishek Awasthi has been unanimously elected Mayor of the City of Greater Bendigo in Victoria, Australia, for the 2026-2027 term. At the age of 43, he has become the first person of Indian origin to hold this position. His election is an important moment for the Indian community in Australia and highlights the growing role of people from diverse backgrounds in local leadership.

Awasthi took the oath of office during a special council meeting held at The Capital theatre in Bendigo on 9 November 2026. Around 250 people attended the ceremony. Andrea Metcalfe was elected Deputy Mayor.

From Himachal Pradesh to Australia

Abhishek Awasthi originally comes from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, India. He moved to Australia in 2008 as an international student to continue his education. His journey from a student to the mayor of an Australian city reflects years of education, community involvement and public service.

Awasthi studied biotechnology and bioinformatics at La Trobe University in Australia. After completing his studies and building his life in the country, he became an Australian citizen in 2015.

His professional and community journey also includes active participation in local government. Before becoming mayor, he served as Greater Bendigo’s first Indian-origin Deputy Mayor during the 2024-2025 term.

First Indian-Origin Mayor of Greater Bendigo

The election of Abhishek Awasthi is a significant development for Greater Bendigo, a city in the Australian state of Victoria. His appointment marks the first time a person of Indian origin has become the city’s mayor.

As mayor, Awasthi will take on an important leadership role in the local council. The position involves representing the city, leading council meetings and working with other councillors on local matters. These responsibilities help shape decisions that affect residents and the wider community.

His election also reflects the contribution of migrant communities to Australian public life. People from different cultural and national backgrounds participate in local organisations, businesses and government across the country.

Role in Building the Indian Community

Apart from his work in local government, Awasthi has been involved in bringing Indian families together in central Victoria. He founded the Indian Association of Bendigo, which was formally established in 2021.

The association connects Indian families and provides opportunities to celebrate culture, build relationships and take part in community programmes. Such organisations help people maintain cultural connections while becoming active members of their local communities.

Awasthi’s involvement in the association shows his interest in community development beyond his political responsibilities. His work has helped create a platform for Indian residents in and around Bendigo to connect with one another.

Understanding the Role of a Mayor in Australia

Australia has three main levels of government: federal, state or territory, and local. Local councils manage services and facilities that directly affect people in their everyday lives.

In Victoria, local councils are responsible for areas such as local roads, waste collection, community facilities, parks, planning and other local services. The mayor provides leadership within the council and represents the local government area at official events and public functions.

Under Victoria’s Local Government Act 2020, councillors elect a mayor from among themselves. A mayoral term can last one or two years, depending on the council’s decision.

A New Chapter for Greater Bendigo

Abhishek Awasthi’s election brings a new chapter to Greater Bendigo’s local leadership. His journey from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh to the mayor’s office in Victoria is also an example of how people with migrant backgrounds can contribute to public institutions in their adopted country.

His experience in community organisations and his earlier role as Deputy Mayor provide important background for his new responsibilities. As he begins the 2026–2027 term, his leadership will be closely connected to the needs, development and representation of Greater Bendigo’s residents.