Experienced Greater Dandenong Councillor, Jim Memeti, has donned the Mayoral robes for an incredible sixth time!
Cr Memeti was first elected to Council in 2005, on a mission to change people’s perceptions of Dandenong. He has since served the community as Mayor in 2010, 2014, 2017, 2020 and 2022.
The Dandenong Ward Councillor’s peers elected him as Mayor at tonight’s Annual Meeting (18 November 2024).
Cr Memeti is a proud Dandenong resident of more than 50 years, married to Mary, a father of three and grandfather of six.
“Dandenong is home to four generations of my family,” Cr Memeti smiled, acknowledging his family in the chamber.
“I am as proud now to represent our diverse, vibrant, multicultural community as I was the day I was elected back in 2005. We have much to celebrate!
“Whatever faith you follow, wherever you were born and whatever language you speak at home – Dandenong, and indeed Greater Dandenong - can be a welcoming home for anyone.
“We have a manufacturing hub of national significance. We have wonderful people, a food scene to rival any in the world, and our community is resilient and tenacious.
“I am committed to bringing my experience to serve this community.”
Cr Memeti spoke to his vision for a united Council with a shared commitment to supporting the community to thrive and prosper.
“We have the talent, the resources, and the passion to make great things happen. And as your Mayor, I will work tirelessly to harness that collective energy to serve the people of our municipality. There are challenges before us, but the opportunities to make a lasting impact are even greater.”
Cr Sophie Tan was elected Deputy Mayor in her sixth year as a Councillor. Cr Tan also served as Deputy Mayor in 2021.
“Personally, culture is very important to me and I know I can bring everyone together to help our community to achieve their visions,” Cr Tan said.
A business and commerce graduate, working in the financial industry, Cr Tan said she would be firmly focused on working with the Mayor, CEO and Executive Team to relieve cost of living pressures for residents.
“I want to help our residents and small businesses tackle the cost of living, which is one of the biggest issues they are facing.
“I will also advocate for more support from the state and federal governments for our infrastructure projects and housing.”
The Councillors and Greater Dandenong City Council CEO, Jacqui Weatherill thanked outgoing Mayor, Cr Lana Formoso and outgoing Deputy Mayor, Cr Richard Lim for their valued contribution and leadership over the past year.
