Mayor and councillors

The Role of the Mayor

The Mayor is the leader of the Council and has a number of roles which are both legislative and functional. The legislative requirements are outlined in Section 2.8 of Local Government Act 1995.

The Act states that the Mayor not only takes precedence at all municipal proceedings within the municipality but also presides at meetings of the Council, ensuring that meetings are orderly and held in accordance with the Act.

The Mayor’s role, however, extends well beyond officiating at council meetings or other municipal proceedings. Additional important roles are providing leadership, promoting positive relationships, and modelling good governance.

Role of Councillor

The role of Councillor, as set out in section 2.10 of the Local Government Act 1995 is to:

represent the interests of electors, ratepayers and residents of the district and takes account of the interests of other persons who work in, or visit, the district;
participates in the deliberation and decision‑making of the local government at council and committee meetings;
facilitates communication with the community about Council decisions
facilitates and maintains good working relationships with other councillors, the mayor or president and the CEO
maintains and develops the requisite skills to effectively perform their role;
performs such other functions as are given to a Councillor by this Act or any other written law.

Ward Boundary Review

Following a review of ward boundaries in 2022, the Governor made an order on the recommendation of the Minister for Local Government to amend the boundaries for the City’s four wards.

This change was implemented for the 2023 local government election.

Please see the updated Ward Boundaries that took effect on 21 October 2023:

View updated Ward Boundaries - Coastal, East, North and Town Wards

For further information place contact Governance Services or read the full report that went to Council.

Elected members

Mayor Caroline Knight

Mayor Caroline Knight has proudly called Mandurah home for 28 years. With a professional background as a Medical Scientist and a long history of community involvement, Caroline is deeply dedicated to the future of Mandurah. She enjoys spending her time hiking, sailing, exploring art, traveling, and reading.

Her academic and career achievements have equipped her with the skills to make informed decisions and address the diverse needs of Mandurah’s residents. Since being elected to Council in 2011, and serving as Deputy Mayor from 2017, Caroline has worked tirelessly to champion the city’s growth, sustainability, and community well-being. Now, as Mayor, she is committed to leading Mandurah with a vision for a thriving, inclusive, and environmentally responsible future.

Caroline is a passionate advocate for Mandurah’s unique environment and has been actively involved in initiatives to protect its natural assets. She recognises the importance of preserving the city’s waterways, wetlands, and green spaces, understanding their vital role in maintaining a healthy and connected community.

In addition to her role as Mayor, Caroline is the Deputy Chair of the Peron Naturaliste Partnership and chairs the Mandurah Environmental Advisory Group. She also serves as a Member on both the WA Planning Commissions Statutory Planning Committee and the Local Government Advisory Board and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Caroline is dedicated to ensuring that Council remains attuned to the needs and aspirations of Mandurah’s people. Her priorities include creating opportunities for young people, providing quality services for families and seniors, and fostering a vibrant city that respects its natural and cultural heritage. She leads with passion, integrity, and a commitment to making Mandurah a place its residents are proud to call home.

Address: PO Box 210, Mandurah WA 6210

Phone: 9550 3714 or 9550 3777

Email: mayor@mandurah.wa.gov.au

Term of Office: January 2025 – October 2025

Email the Mayor

Councillor Bob Pond

Address: PO Box 210, Mandurah WA 6210

Phone: 0416 280 094

Email: bob.pond@mandurah.wa.gov.au

Term of Office: 2021 - 2025

Councillor Jess Smith

Cr Jess Smith is an esteemed member of the community, deeply committed to the betterment of Mandurah and its residents. With a decade-long career as a practicing paramedic, she brings invaluable experience and a profound understanding of public health and safety issues to her role as an Elected Member. Alongside her husband and young son, Cr Smith is an active participant in various community initiatives, particularly within the Coastal Ward, where she resides.

Cr Smiths' decision to serve as an Elected Member stems from her unwavering belief in the importance of local representation that truly mirrors the values and needs of the community. She recognises firsthand the challenges faced by working parents, families, and seniors in our area, and is dedicated to addressing these issues head-on.

Key Priorities:

Improving Senior Health Outcomes: Cr Smith is determined to prioritise the urgent need for better health outcomes for seniors in our community. Drawing upon her background in healthcare, she aims to implement targeted initiatives and support services to enhance the well-being of our elderly residents.
Enhancing Neighbourhood Safety: Ensuring the safety and security of our neighbourhoods is a top priority for Cr Smith. Through collaboration with local law enforcement and community stakeholders, she seeks to implement effective strategies to tackle crime and create safer environments for all residents.
Sustainable Infrastructure Development: With Mandurah experiencing growth in its population, Cr Smith recognises the importance of maintaining and expanding local infrastructure to meet the needs of our evolving community. She is committed to overseeing responsible and sustainable development that prioritizes the long-term interests of residents.

With a Bachelor of Science degree and running her own small business, Cr Smith showcases her academic acumen and entrepreneurial spirit. Her passion for serving her community, coupled with her energy and dedication, makes her well-equipped to represent the interests of Mandurah residents effectively.

Cr Smiths’ vision for Mandurah is one of prosperity and inclusivity. She is deeply invested in ensuring that our city flourishes, offering opportunities for all residents to thrive and contribute to its vibrant tapestry.

Positions held on Committees:

Council’s Planning and Community Consultation Committee
Mandurah Local Emergency Management Advisory Committee
Mandurah Bush Fire Advisory Committee
Mandurah Australia Day Awards Selection Panel
City of Mandurah, Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee

Phone: 0447 667 913

Email: jess.smith@mandurah.wa.gov.au

Term of Office: 2023 - 2027

Councillor Jacob Cumberworth

Phone: 0458 916 243

Email: jacob.cumberworth@mandurah.wa.gov.au

Term of Office: 2023 - 2027

Councillor Amber Kearns

Address: PO Box 210, Mandurah WA 6210

Phone: (08) 9550 3777

Email: amber.kearns@mandurah.wa.gov.au

Term of Office: 2021 - 2025

Councillor Daniel Wilkins

Address: PO Box 210, Mandurah WA 6210

Phone: 0418 357 993

Email: daniel.wilkins@mandurah.wa.gov.au

Term of Office: 2021 - 2025

Councillor Shannon Wright

Cr Shannon Wright is a dedicated advocate for the Mandurah community, deeply invested in its vibrant lifestyle and collective well-being. Alongside his wife and four children, he actively participates in local events and festivals, cherishing the unique atmosphere Mandurah offers. As the Principal of Greenfields Primary School and, having been involved on volunteer boards in the past, Cr Wright brings a wealth of experience and a passion for community development to his role as an Elected Member.

Cr Wright's vision for Mandurah is one of prosperity, sustainability, and inclusivity. He is committed to a thriving community with access to well-maintained facilities, responsible public spending, and support for local businesses. Additionally, he is dedicated to promoting sustainable environmental practices to safeguard the city's future for generations to come.

Key Priorities:

Community Well-being: Cr Wright prioritises the safety and security of Mandurah residents, advocating for modern measures to secure neighbourhoods where seniors, families, and youth can flourish. He is committed to implementing initiatives that promote safer roads, accessible transport options, and improved access to local recreational facilities.
Economic Development: As a supporter of local businesses and job creation, Cr Wright is dedicated to collaborating with institutions and businesses to create employment opportunities that strengthen Mandurah's economy. He recognises the importance of education in preparing the workforce for the future and is committed to fostering partnerships that promote skill development and local job growth.
Environmental Sustainability: Cr Wright is passionate about promoting sustainable environmental practices within Mandurah. He believes in the importance of preserving the city's natural resources and is committed to implementing initiatives that reduce the City's carbon footprint, promoting a variety of clean energy sources, and protecting local ecosystems for future generations.

As an experienced leader, Cr Wright understands the importance of listening to others and working collaboratively to achieve common goals. With his vision, values, and dedication to the community, he is poised to make a positive and lasting impact as an Elected Member, ensuring Mandurah continues to evolve as a vibrant and inclusive city for years to come.

Positions held on Committees:

Council’s Planning and Community Consultation Committee
City of Mandurah’s Audit and Risk Committee
Mandurah Australia Day Awards Selection Panel

Phone: 0480 259 356

Email: shannon.wright@mandurah.wa.gov.au

Term of Office: 2023- 2027

Cr Peter Jackson