Whittlesea administrator Bruce Billson has resigned from the council eight months into his four-year term.
Mr Billson was one of three administrators appointed to Whittlesea council in June 2020 following the state government’s decision to sack the city’s councillors in March 2020.
Mr Billson and fellow administrators Lydia Wilson and Peita Duncan were appointed to the council until October 2024.
He has taken on a five year term as the small business and family enterprise ombudsman.
Whittlesea chair administrator Lydia Wilson said in a statement that Mr Billson has made a “significant contribution” to the community.
“During his time as a member of the panel of administrators, Bruce has worked alongside administrator Peita Duncan and myself supporting our executive and staff to deliver a range of service and governance improvements, support our community through COVID-19, and embark on a significant consultation to develop a new council plan,” Ms Wilson said.
Ms Wilson said the community can still rely on herself and Ms Duncan.
“Please be assured that administrator Duncan and I remain fully committed to our work and the roadmap we have set for the future of the City of Whittlesea, including an ambitious outcome-focused program for the remainder of our term.
“We are looking forward to the Victorian government announcing a replacement administrator for the City of Whittlesea in due course.”
Mr Billson said he is looking forward to assuming the role of small business and family enterprise ombudsman.
“All of my efforts will go towards putting the wind in the sails of small business and helping to energise enterprise to Australia’s benefit,” Mr Billson said.
“Most importantly, I’ll be focused on ensuring the small business community has the support and confidence they need to survive and thrive well beyond the COVID crisis.”
He will commence his role on Thursday.
Michaela Meade
