Ex-AFA CEO Olly Arkins Appointed Deputy Lord Mayor of Sydney

Olly Arkins, a former CEO of the Australian Festival Association, has been appointed as the deputy lord mayor of Sydney. She was unanimously voted into the role, following her previous two years of serving on the City of Sydney Council. Arkins makes history as the first openly trans deputy mayor of Australia's most populous city.

Expressing her motivations for running for council, she stated, "I ran for Council because I have lived in Sydney at its best; fun, welcoming, diverse and affordable. I have also lived it at its worst; lockout laws, eye-watering rents and policing policies that attempted to put music festivals out of business."

Arkins is a lifelong Sydneysider with a history of advocating for various causes, including special entertainment precincts, affordable housing, LGBTQIA+ support, and major events such as Yabun and Mardi Gras. One of her major achievements at the AFA was the successful reform of the Music Festivals Act in New South Wales, leading to significant changes in September 2024.

In her new position, Arkins aims to make Sydney a more enjoyable and accessible city for residents and visitors alike. She is also a member of several committees and advisory panels, further demonstrating her commitment to the cultural, creative, and nightlife aspects of Sydney.