Mayor Kearns is a dedicated leader, community advocate, and collaborator who brings both lived experience and professional insight to her role. Known for saying she is “not here for politics, but for people,” Mayor Kearns leads with authenticity, integrity and presence. She believes leadership is about showing up, listening deeply, and delivering tangible outcomes that improve everyday life. Her approach is collaborative and service-oriented, grounded in fairness, compassion and a strong sense of shared purpose.
She was first elected as a Councillor in 2021 and quickly became known for her hands-on, solutions focused leadership grounded in compassion, integrity, and genuine connection to community. She holds a Diploma in Local Government and was awarded the Jacqui Dodd Scholarship in 2022 for her commitment to local leadership.
A Mandurah local since 1993, she has spent over 30 years living, working, and volunteering across the community. Her experience spans Centrelink, school chaplaincy, and service on multiple not-for-profit boards, including Allambee Counselling and WestAus Crisis & Welfare Services, giving her deep insight into challenges such as youth disengagement, mental health, and generational disadvantage.
The Mayor is a strong advocate for young people, serving on school boards and working closely with local students and families. As a small business owner and mother of three, she champions safe neighbourhoods, strong local economies, and inclusive communities.
The Mayor is committed to ensuring Mandurah thrives as a city where every resident feels valued and connected.
Positions held on Committees:
- Australia Day Awards Selection Panel
- South West Regional Road Group
- WALGA Peel Country Zone
- Metro Outer Joint Development Assessment Panel
- Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee
- Planning and Community Consultation Committee
Key Priorities
Community Safety and Connection: Mayor Kearns is committed to strengthening community safety through continued investment in lighting, CCTV and community-led safety initiatives, alongside strong partnerships with WA Police, local businesses and residents.
Housing Security and Homelessness: Advocating for prevention-focused, wraparound support services, crisis accommodation and transitional housing, working closely with local service providers, churches and support organisations to address homelessness with compassion and accountability.
Youth Empowerment and Leadership: A strong believer in the power of young voices, Mayor Kearns is focused on expanding Junior Council, increasing youth participation in decision-making, and supporting opportunities in sport, recreation, leadership and creative expression.
Seniors and Intergenerational Connection: Mayor Kearns prioritises accessible infrastructure, social inclusion and strong volunteer networks, while strengthening partnerships with seniors centres and aged-care service providers to support dignity, connection and wellbeing.
Local Economy and Small Business: She champions local business through Buy Local initiatives, business mentoring and skills development, and supports events and activations that create year-round economic vibrancy and opportunity.
Environment and Liveability: Protecting Mandurah’s waterways and natural assets is central to her vision, alongside advocating for sustainable design, green infrastructure, shade and climate-resilient public spaces.