The City of Hobart thanks Deputy Lord Mayor Helen Burnet

Published on 09 April 2024

The City of Hobart congratulates Deputy Lord Mayor Helen Burnet, who has been elected to the Tasmanian House of Assembly seat of Clark following last month's state election.

Serving the Hobart Community for 19 years, Cr Burnet has been an integral part of the Hobart City Council since 2005, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to our city.

Serving as Deputy Lord Mayor from 2009 to 2011 and again since 2018, Cr Burnet has been an advocate on many issues including, for stronger regional collaboration on climate change planning and the protection of kunanyi / Mt Wellington from inappropriate development.

Cr Burnet also led the work to protect of view lines and heritage through clearer height limits in the CBD.

Cr Burnet advocated for differential rates for the owners of short stay accommodation as a way to reduce the conversion of long-term rentals to holiday rentals.

In addition to her significant contributions as Deputy Lord Mayor, Cr Burnet has been on numerous committees and has also been chair of the Planning Committee, City Infrastructure Committee, Future Hobart Portfolio Committee and the Southern Tasmanian Councils Authority.

Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds expressed her congratulations and gratitude, stating, "Helen's election to the Tasmanian House of Assembly is a mark to her community leadership and advocacy for issues of concern to the community.

“She has worked incredibly hard during all her years on Council and has been a person that the community can rely on to take an interest in their voices.

“She has been a wonderful support in her role as Deputy Lord Mayor over the past five years.”

Cr Burnet said, “The time in leadership roles at Hobart and at the helm of the Southern Tasmanian Councils Authority has put me in touch with so many people and their issues across our municipality and beyond.

“It has been a pleasure to represent the people of Hobart and to work with colleagues and staff who put the interest of others first.

“I see the opportunity to represent the people of Clark and advocate for urgent action on such issues of homelessness, climate change and transport as a continuation of that work.”

Cr Burnet's position on the Hobart City Council will be filled by a recount from the 2022 local government elections, while the position of Deputy Lord Mayor will be decided by a vote by the Hobart City Council elected members during a council meeting as per the Local Government Act.