Local government elections will be held on September 14, 2024.

As part of our series featuring Wollongong's candidates for Lord Mayor, Andrew Anthony answers questions.

Please introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m standing for Lord Mayor and Councillor in Ward 2. A lifelong resident of Wollongong, I currently live with my family in Figtree. I’ve studied in the fields of Electrical Engineering and Business Management and I work as an ICT Consultant, primarily helping small businesses install IT equipment tailored to their needs.

My passion lies in protecting our environment and advocating for responsible development. I enjoy tinkering with computers and old electronics and I am passionate about finding ways to reduce electronic waste. I’m a founding member of the Illawarra Bicycle User group and a member of the Sustainable Industries Development Institute.

Why are you the best person to be Wollongong’s next Lord Mayor?

I’ve had the privilege of serving as a Wollongong City Councillor from 2004 to 2008, which gave me valuable insights into local governance. I have a passion to want to help people and have a positive impact in our community.  I’m a strong believer in community advocacy and fighting for the community’s needs. I recently took up the volunteer role of Neighbourhood Forum 5 Convenor.

I will be a strong advocate for Wollongong, ensuring the city secures its fair share of funding and support from state and federal governments, while championing a clear vision for a sustainable future.

What would be your top priorities if elected to the city’s top job?

1.            Strengthening community engagement and ensure that the voices of residents are heard and respected in the decision-making process.

2.            Ensuring that all development projects are well-planned, respect the environment, and enhance community liveability.

3.            Safeguarding Wollongong's natural beauty, including the escarpment and foreshores, from overdevelopment.

4.            Addressing the demands on housing supply and infrastructure to keep pace with population growth.

5.            Promote transparency and accountability within council to build trust and ensure effective governance.

What's your stance on wind farms and the Illawarra's energy transition?

I support the transition to renewable energy, to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels. However, I do have concerns about the large-scale wind farm proposed off the coast of Wollongong.

The community consultation process was flawed, with many residents feeling that the outcome was predetermined and their voices were not genuinely considered. Rigorous environmental assessments must be conducted to ensure that the wind farm does not harm marine life, bird populations, or our beautiful coastline.

I would advocate for a more transparent consultation process to ensure that the community are heard and that any potential impacts on our environment and local economy are genuinely considered.

If you could deliver one key project in your first term, what would it be?

Recent floods have had a profound impact on many residents. There is an urgent need for a comprehensive approach to stormwater and flood management with the goal to protect homes, businesses, and public spaces and to keep our community safe. I am committed to working with the Council's Floodplain Committees, the community, and experts to develop sustainable solutions. This includes improving existing infrastructure to better manage stormwater and mitigate flood risks. I will advocate for support and funding from state and federal governments to ensure we have the resources necessary. One solution is to explore the option of purchasing the most badly affected properties to prevent future risk.

Why do you want the job?

I care deeply about our city and its future, and I am passionate about Wollongong’s potential to become a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive community. I am committed to addressing key challenges such as overdevelopment, environmental protection, infrastructure needs, and community engagement. I aim to use my experience, skills, and dedication to lead our city with integrity and vision, ensuring Wollongong remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

Meet Wollongong's mayoral candidates

Tania Brown – Labor

Jess Whittaker – Greens

Andrew Anthony – Independent

Suzanne de Vive – Independent

Ryan Morris – Independent