Maintaining momentum

I’m here to ensure Council continues to deliver for the community, build on the city’s momentum and guide the organisation with purpose during this transitional period.

Albury is thriving. People are choosing to make this city their home, drawn by lifestyle, opportunity and the unique character that makes Albury so special. Strong regional growth, rising housing and construction activity, and ongoing plans for future infrastructure show a city ready to build on its momentum and deliver real benefits for the whole community.

I bring more than 45 years of experience in local government, including 32 years as a General Manager (CEO). I’ve led councils through complex transitions, including guiding Cootamundra-Gundagai through the challenges of demerger preparation. Across these roles, my focus has been on strengthening communities, improving services and energising teams to deliver tangible results.

Like many councils across New South Wales, Albury is navigating rising costs while continuing to deliver for the community. We’re taking a fresh, strategic look at how the city operates to ensure Albury stays strong and sustainable for the long term - finding smarter ways to deliver services, invest in projects and create opportunities for residents and businesses today and tomorrow.

Council has clear priorities for the year ahead: delivering the FY27 budget and advancing projects outlined in the Four-Year Delivery Plan, updated annually to respond to new opportunities, community needs and progress on existing initiatives. Alongside this, we’re exploring opportunities to improve efficiency and strengthen the organisation, ensuring every decision supports a thriving, resilient city.

AlburyCity is taking a strategic approach to secure the city’s long-term financial sustainability. Strong work has already been undertaken to understand the situation and explore future options. The recent AlburyCity Services: What’s Important to You? survey is an important part of this process. Survey outcomes and recommendations will first be considered by Council and then shared with the community in the coming weeks, ensuring engagement is meaningful, transparent and focused on achieving long-term benefits before any decisions are made.

Delivering core services – from roads and public spaces to water and sewer infrastructure – lays the foundation for growth. Building on this, Council can continue enhancing the city’s services, amenities and opportunities so everyone benefits from Albury’s momentum.

Albury is full of potential. Together, we can keep the city moving, meet the needs of our growing community and seize the opportunities ahead. I’m excited to be part of this journey, working closely with Council, Our People and the community to ensure the city remains vibrant, resilient and ready for what lies ahead.

Steve McGrath
Interim CEO, AlburyCity