A 43-year-old individual from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first person of Indian origin to be elected Mayor of Greater Bendigo in Victoria, Australia. Abhishek Awasthi assumed office for the 2026-27 term following an oath-taking ceremony.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that Awasthi, a native of Lower Samkhetar in Mandi town, expressed his honour and humility upon receiving the opportunity to serve the residents of Greater Bendigo. He extended his gratitude to the fellow councillors for their trust and acknowledged the outpouring of congratulatory messages from India, particularly from his home state of Himachal Pradesh and Mandi.
Awasthi relocated to Australia in 2008 to pursue higher education, enrolling at La Trobe University where he studied biotechnology and subsequently earned a master’s degree in bioinformatics. During his academic pursuits, he also engaged in part-time employment. He later established a professional career, occupying several key positions within the Victorian state government.
He obtained Australian citizenship in 2015 and resides in Greater Bendigo with his wife, Anima, and daughter, Agni. Awasthi’s foray into local politics commenced in November 2024 when he was elected as a councillor representing Kennington Ward. Greater Bendigo comprises nine wards. His election also marked him as the first individual of Indian heritage to serve as Deputy Mayor for the 2024-25 term, working alongside the then-Mayor Andrea Metcalf.
His ascent to the mayoral position within a two-year span of entering the city council is regarded as a notable accomplishment in his public service career. His parents, Surender Pal, a retired employee of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), and Champa Sharma, a homemaker, were in attendance at the swearing-in ceremony, accompanied by other relatives.
The news of his electoral success has precipitated celebrations in Mandi, with local residents viewing his trajectory as a moment of collective pride for the town and for Himachal Pradesh. The administrative structure of Greater Bendigo involves a council composed of nine wards, with each ward represented by an elected councillor. The Mayor’s office, a position of significant civic responsibility, is filled through an election process among these councillors.
Awasthi’s political journey in Australia reflects a growing trend of individuals from diverse backgrounds engaging in local governance in foreign nations. His appointment as Mayor underscores the integration and influence of the Indian diaspora in Australian civic life. The role of Mayor in Australian local government typically involves presiding over council meetings, acting as a ceremonial head of the municipality, and representing the council and the community at various events. The Deputy Mayor, also elected by the councillors, assists the Mayor and may assume mayoral duties in their absence.
The journey from a small town in Himachal Pradesh to a leadership role in a significant Australian municipality highlights Awasthi’s dedication and ability to connect with the electorate and his peers in the council. His previous experience within the Victorian state government likely provided him with valuable insights into public administration and policy-making, which he can now leverage in his capacity as Mayor. The city of Greater Bendigo, located in Victoria, is known for its cultural heritage and economic activities, and the new Mayor is expected to guide its development and address the needs of its diverse population.
His personal background, including his educational pursuits and the years spent building a career in Australia, demonstrates a consistent commitment to his adopted home. The presence of his family at the official ceremony further emphasizes the support system that has been integral to his achievements. The broader implications of his election extend beyond his personal success, serving as an inspiration for many in the Indian community aspiring to participate in public life internationally.
The Chenab Times News Desk
