A Champion to lead Banyule

Published on 18 November 2025

Banyule City Council has elected Cr Alison Champion as Mayor for the coming 12 months, with Cr Rick Garotti appointed Deputy Mayor at tonight’s Special Council Meeting.

Cr Champion steps into the role following a year of strong leadership from outgoing Mayor Cr Elizabeth Nealy and Deputy Mayor Cr Peter Castaldo.

Cr Champion thanked her fellow councillors for their trust and acknowledged the contribution of Cr Nealy and Cr Castaldo, noting their term was marked by diligence, professionalism and grace, and helped set the new councillor group up for a successful term.

After thanking her colleagues again in her acceptance speech, she spoke of her excitement for the year ahead.

“I’m looking forward to showing up for our community, for my fellow councillors, and for myself.

“There are no heroes in this role – as a team of councillors, I’ll make sure we all support each other.”

Cr Champion added that she was proud to be working alongside Cr Garotti again, repeating their 2019/20 leadership as Mayor and Deputy Mayor. 

A Mayor with deep community roots

Cr Alison Champion, a Montmorency resident for more than two decades and mother of two, has represented the community of Sherbourne Ward since 2016. She has previously served as Mayor of Banyule (2019/20) and Deputy Mayor (2018/19 and 2021/22).

Over her many years in Banyule, Cr Champion has built strong relationships across the community, particularly with local schools, sporting clubs and business networks. She draws on decades of experience in hospitality, vocational education and real estate,  equiping her with the practical skills to engage people, listen closely to community needs and work collaboratively to create logical, community-focused solutions.

Cr Champion is personally, socially and economically invested in Banyule, and is driven by a commitment to fostering safe, healthy, accessible and sustainable neighbourhoods. She is known for her passion for encouraging community ideas, supporting local initiatives and bringing people together to create positive change.