Asta Hill has made history as the first mayor of Mparntwe/Alice Springs backed by the Greens, following her election on 23 August 2023. Hill, a criminal defence lawyer and human rights advocate, aims to reshape the narrative surrounding her hometown, where she grew up and now raises her two young children. Her election marks a significant shift in a town that has recently faced tough challenges and public scrutiny.
Upon returning to Alice Springs after studying and working overseas, including a stint as a legal intern at The Hague, Hill discovered a vibrant community pulsating with energy. The town serves as a gathering point for the Arrernte and other First Nations peoples, alongside settler descendants and increasingly diverse multicultural populations. “It truly is the most beautiful place to live,” Hill expressed, highlighting the rich tapestry of languages and cultures coexisting within the town.
Facing Misconceptions and Crime Issues
Despite its small population of fewer than 30,000, Alice Springs holds a unique place in the Australian consciousness, often depicted negatively in the media. Hill’s vision contrasts sharply with the portrayal of chaos that emerged last year, when the Northern Territory government declared an emergency due to rising youth crime, including incidents of vandalism and public disturbances involving predominantly Indigenous youth. Such events led to national discussions on crime and prompted calls for federal intervention.
“I think, by and large, portrayals of our town really distort the reality,” Hill remarked. As a professional who has worked extensively in legal aid, particularly in Indigenous outreach, she understands the complexities of crime and its aftermath. “I want to take back some power in writing the story of this town,” she stated, underscoring her motivation for entering the mayoral race.
In the 5 September 2023 count, Hill secured a decisive victory, obtaining 50.3% of the vote after preferences were allocated. Her platform centered on “changing the story” of Alice Springs, prioritizing the safety and well-being of young Aboriginal people, and ensuring they are not used as political pawns in broader discussions about crime.
A New Generation of Leadership
Don Zoellner, a former pro-vice-chancellor at Charles Darwin University and long-time Alice Springs resident, suggests that Hill’s election reflects a notable shift in the town’s demographics and political landscape. “Alice Springs is a regional centre for health and community service providers,” he noted, indicating a move away from the conservative politics that dominated in previous decades. “There is a new generation of younger people coming in, who see this town as a place of opportunity.”
Hill’s election also resonates with the town’s independent spirit. Historically, Alice Springs has supported candidates who advocate for its unique identity. Her deep local roots, including giving birth to her first child in her childhood home, further cement her connection to the community. Zoellner emphasized that her victory reflects Alice Springs’ “bloody-mindedly independent” character.
As Hill embarks on her tenure, she brings the organizational strength of the Greens party, which has been active on a grassroots level in the region. Hill previously ran for the Alice Springs seat in the Territory elections, where she garnered 38.8% of the primary vote, laying the groundwork for her successful mayoral campaign.
While Hill embraces her party affiliation, she has expressed a commitment to engaging with local concerns and maintaining her independence as a leader. In a recent candidates’ debate, she emphasized the need for community dialogue on sensitive issues, such as citizenship ceremonies on 26 January.
Hill aims to tackle pressing local issues, including chronic shortages in childcare, illustrating her focus on practical solutions that resonate with residents. Rolf Gerritsen, an emeritus professor based in Alice Springs, noted that the town’s residents desire a local politician who addresses day-to-day challenges, rather than distant political ideologies.
As Alice Springs navigates its complex identity, Asta Hill’s leadership marks a pivotal moment. Her commitment to fostering a community that embraces its diversity while addressing pressing concerns could redefine the narrative of this iconic Australian town.
