City of Darwin has officially sworn in 13 Elected Members, including Lord Mayor Peter Styles, forming the 24th Council who will represent the Darwin Municipality for the 2025 – 2029 term.
The Lord Mayor and 12 Councillors were inaugurated at Darwin’s Civic Centre in mid-September, with six new Elected Members joining a returning, re-elected seven.
Re-elected members include Ed Smelt and Peter Pangquee in the Chan Ward, Sam Weston and Mick Palmer in Lyons Ward, Jimmy Bouhoris in Richardson Ward and Sylvia Klonaris and Kim Farrar in Waters Ward.
This term also marks a milestone for City of Darwin, with Waters Ward Councillor Patrik Ralph becoming the youngest Elected Member in the city’s history. He is joined by other new Elected Members entering their first ever term, Julie Fraser, Nicole Brown, Shani Carson and Edwin Joseph. Three of the Elected Members identify as First Nations.
The 24th Council also sees female representation across each ward.
City of Darwin CEO Simone Saunders said the new council brought together a balance of experience and innovation, united in their commitment to working collaboratively on local priorities.
“Councillors will be engaging with residents to ensure community voices remain central to shaping the city’s future direction.”
“The new Council will continue to deliver on current strategies and projects while developing future initiatives that reflect the needs and aspirations of the municipality,” she said.
Lord Mayor Peter Styles said it was an honour to be sworn in.
“As I step into the new role, I am excited about the possibilities ahead. Together, we’ll make Darwin an even better place to live, work and raise families in.
“I can’t wait to get work – here’s to the future of our city,” Mr Styles said.
Lord Mayor: Peter Styles.
Chan Ward: Ed Smelt, Julie Fraser, Peter Pangquee.
Lyons Ward: Sam Weston, Mick Palmer, Nicole Brown.
Richardson Ward: Jimmy Bouhoris, Shani Carson, Edwin Joseph.
Waters Ward: Sylvia Klonaris, Patrik Ralph, Kim Farrar.
