Abhishek Awasthi, who arrived in Australia from India as an international student in 2008, has been elected Mayor of the City of Greater Bendigo in Victoria, marking a significant milestone in his journey from student life to local government leadership.
Originally from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, Awasthi was unanimously elected by fellow councillors at a council meeting held at The Capital Theatre in Bendigo on Monday, 9 November 2026. He will serve as Mayor for the 2026 – 27 term, with Councillor Andrea Metcalf elected Deputy Mayor.
His appointment represents a milestone for the Indian Australian community and highlights the contribution of people from migrant backgrounds to regional communities and civic life.
From International Student to Community Leader
Awasthi arrived in Australia in 2008 to pursue a Master’s degree in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics at La Trobe University.
After moving to Bendigo in 2010, he became increasingly involved in local community organisations, volunteering and multicultural initiatives. Over time, the regional Victorian city became home for him and his family.
In 2021, he founded the Indian Association of Bendigo to bring Indian families together and strengthen community connections across central Victoria.
The association has organised cultural celebrations, charitable activities and community support initiatives, helping create opportunities for people to connect with Indian heritage while engaging with the wider Bendigo community.
His community involvement has also extended beyond the Indian Australian community, including work with Rotary, multicultural services, community houses and local sustainability groups.
A Journey Through Local Government
Awasthi entered elected office in November 2024 after winning the Kennington Ward election, securing 58.86 per cent of first-preference votes.
He subsequently became Greater Bendigo’s first Indian-born Deputy Mayor for the 2024 – 25 term, serving alongside then-Mayor Andrea Metcalf.
His unanimous election as Mayor comes two years after entering the council chamber, marking another important step in his public service journey.
As a councillor, Awasthi has advocated for improved local services, affordable housing, better walking and cycling infrastructure, support for small businesses and expanded mental health services.
Priorities for Greater Bendigo
As Mayor, Awasthi will lead the council responsible for representing residents across Greater Bendigo’s nine wards.
In a statement following his election, he said he was honoured to have the confidence of his fellow councillors and was ready to serve the community with kindness and compassion.
He highlighted the importance of listening to residents and ensuring that community voices continue to shape council priorities and decisions.
Awasthi also emphasised the role of small businesses in the local economy, pointing to their contribution to employment, the character of local streets, tourism, innovation and economic development.
A Milestone for Regional Australia’s Indian Community
Awasthi’s journey from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh to the mayoral office in Greater Bendigo reflects years of education, community involvement and public service.
For Indian Australians and other migrant communities, his appointment is a significant example of how people who make Australia their home can contribute to the communities in which they live and take on leadership responsibilities.
His election also highlights the growing role of multicultural communities in shaping regional Australia’s social, cultural and civic life.
As he begins his mayoral term, Awasthi will take on the responsibility of representing a diverse community and helping guide Greater Bendigo’s future.
