Indian Citizen Creates History In Australian Politics

Indian origin citizens often make headlines after getting elected to coveted positions in foreign countries. Most of the time, it is in the western part of the world where our NRIs usually dominate politics and hold key posts. For a change, an Indian has now created history in Australian politics for the first time.

Abhishek Awasthi, who originally belongs to Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, has been officially elected as the new mayor of Greater Bendigo in Australia. His unanimous election makes him the very first person of Indian origin to hold this prestigious mayoral office in the Victorian city.

His inspiring life story started back in 2008 when he first left India and landed in Australia as a young international student. He joined La Trobe University to study biotechnology and completed a master’s degree in bioinformatics while doing part-time work to support himself.

After settling down and receiving his Australian citizenship in 2015, he started working hard within his local community.  Before stepping into full-time politics, Awasthi spent years volunteering for local organizations and even founded the Indian Association of Bendigo to connect migrant families. 

He entered civic leadership in November 2024 by winning the local council election from the Kennington Ward. He quickly proved his leadership skills and served as the city’s deputy mayor before being chosen unanimously to lead the entire council.

As the new mayor, Awasthi has promised to focus heavily on improving local services, building affordable housing and expanding mental health support for residents.