Melbourne’s Lord Mayor, Sally Capp, has declared that she will not be seeking re-election in the upcoming local government polls in October, stepping down from her role after six years to pursue fresh opportunities.

Capp, who took office in 2018, cited the need for new leadership in Melbourne when she initially assumed her position.

She highlighted internal challenges, including unacceptable behavior among council members, and delays in key projects like the renewal of the Queen Victoria Market, as issues she tackled during her tenure.

Read Sally Capp’s full statement:

In a statement released today, Capp expressed her intent to conclude her term in June and collaborate with the council and CEO to ensure a smooth transition.

The decision comes after her re-election in 2020 for a second four-year term.

Reflecting on her time as Melbourne’s lord mayor, Capp underscored achievements such as the redevelopment of the Queen Victoria Market precinct and initiatives like the Greenline project along the Yarra River.

She also noted the significance of being the first directly elected female lord mayor in Melbourne and urged more women to consider public office.

FILE PHOTO: A lone woman, wearing a protective face mask, walks across an unusually quiet city centre bridge on the first day of a lockdown as the state of Victoria looks to curb the spread of a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Melbourne, Australia, July 16, 2021. REUTERS/Sandra Sanders/File Photo

Covid lockdowns

However, Capp acknowledged the challenging periods she faced, particularly during the COVID-19 lockdowns, which significantly impacted the city’s vibrancy and economy. Despite the difficulties, she expressed optimism about Melbourne’s recovery trajectory.

With Capp’s departure, Deputy Mayor Nicholas Reece is poised to assume the role until the October elections, although his candidacy remains unconfirmed.

Reece’s leadership aspirations and plans for the future are yet to be disclosed.

Meanwhile, former federal senator and media personality Derryn Hinch recently announced his withdrawal from the lord mayoral race, citing health concerns and financial constraints.