Alex Makin elected as new Port Phillip Mayor

Montague Ward councillor Alex Makin has been elected as Mayor of the City of Port Phillip, marking a new chapter for the municipality after a year in which he has earned respect for his pragmatic leadership and strong focus on collaboration.

Cr Makin, who has lived in Port Melbourne since 2013, was elected unopposed at the council’s Special Meeting on November 12, with Cr Bryan Mears (Lakeside Ward) reappointed as Deputy Mayor for a second consecutive term.

Having first joined Port Phillip Council in November 2024, Cr Makin’s appointment as Mayor caps off an impressive first year representing the growing Montague Ward, which includes key parts of Fishermans Bend and South Melbourne.

A long-time advocate for improved community engagement, he has been praised for his efforts to restore public trust in council processes and champion local voices in planning and infrastructure discussions.

Cr Makin brings significant prior experience to the role, having served eight years as a councillor at Maroondah City Council, including a term as one of Victoria’s youngest politically independent mayors in 2010.

“This is a time for councillors to be bold,” Cr Makin said. “We have such great opportunities for our city. We need to build on what we’ve already established together so tomorrow can be even better than today.”

He said his mayoral focus would include addressing climate change, strengthening community partnerships, and continuing to advocate for Fishermans Bend’s long-term success – particularly through the delivery of timely public transport and urban infrastructure.

Cr Makin also plans to meet with a range of community and industry groups to help shape the city’s future direction.

“We’re going to have an exciting year – a year of challenges – but together we can achieve wonderful things,” he said.

Deputy Mayor Bryan Mears welcomed the opportunity to continue in the role, commending outgoing Mayor Louise Crawford for her dedication and resilience during a term defined by key milestones, including the opening of the Port Phillip EcoCentre and the Madden House project supporting residents experiencing homelessness.

Cr Mears said he looked forward to working alongside Cr Makin to serve both their wards and the wider Port Phillip community.