An Indian-origin man from Himachal Pradesh has made history in Australia. Abhishek Awasthi, who hails from Lower Samkhetar in Mandi, has taken over as the Mayor of Greater Bendigo in Victoria, becoming the first person of Indian origin to hold the position in the city.As reported by The Tribune and various media, Awasthi, 43, took the oath of office on November 9, 2026, at a ceremony held at The Capital Theatre in Greater Bendigo. He has assumed the mayoral position for the 2026-27 term, which will last one year. His appointment is also a significant milestone for the Indian community in the region.
From an international student in 2008 to Mayor in 2026
Awasthi’s journey to the mayor’s office began when he moved to Australia in 2008 to pursue higher education. According to New India Abroad, he arrived in the country as an international student and eventually settled in Bendigo in 2010.As reported by The Tribune, he enrolled at La Trobe University, where he studied biotechnology and later earned a master’s degree in bioinformatics. He also took up part-time work while completing his education. His move to Australia was followed by a career in public service. Over the years, he held several important positions in the Victorian state government. He became an Australian citizen in 2015 and now lives in Greater Bendigo with his wife, Anima, and daughter, Agni.According to The New Indian Express, Awasthi also became involved in community activities after settling in Bendigo. He participated in volunteering initiatives and programmes promoting multiculturalism. He also founded the Indian Association of Bendigo, which was formally established in 2021. The organisation works to bring Indian families across central Victoria together through cultural events, charitable activities and community support programmes.
Entered local politics in 2024 and became Deputy Mayor
Over the years, he held several important positions in the Victorian state government.
Awasthi’s entry into electoral politics came in November 2024, when he won the councillor’s election from Kennington Ward in Greater Bendigo. The city has nine wards.His election to the council was followed by another milestone. He became the first person of Indian origin to serve as Deputy Mayor of Greater Bendigo for the 2024-25 term, working alongside Andrea Metcalf, who was then the Mayor.Just two years after entering the city council, Awasthi was unanimously selected for the mayoral position for 2026-27. According to The Tribune, his parents and other relatives were present at the swearing-in ceremony to witness the occasion. His father, Surender Pal, is retired from the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), while his mother, Champa Sharma, is a homemaker.
What Abhishek Awasthi said after becoming Mayor
Speaking to The Tribune’s Dipender Manta after his election, Awasthi expressed gratitude to his fellow councillors and the people of Greater Bendigo for trusting him with the responsibility.“I am truly honoured and humbled to have been elected Mayor of the City of Greater Bendigo. Thanks to my fellow Councillors for their trust and confidence, and to our community for the opportunity to serve,” he said.He also acknowledged the congratulatory messages he received from India, particularly from Himachal Pradesh and his hometown of Mandi. Awasthi also expressed his gratitude to his parents, relatives and everyone who had supported him throughout his journey.