Bruce Reynolds has taken the helm as the new Lord Mayor of Perth, following his election on October 18, 2023. His appointment comes after a challenging period marked by political tension and leadership changes within the city council. Reynolds, who previously served as deputy lord mayor, stepped up after Basil Zempilas transitioned to state politics, becoming the leader of the Western Australian Liberal Party.
Reynolds acknowledges the high expectations that accompany his new role. He aims to rebuild trust within the council and the community, stating, “You couldn’t get worse than where it was…the only way was up.” His predecessor’s tenure was characterized by frequent clashes with the state government, including Western Australia Premier Roger Cook‘s admission of avoiding mandatory meetings with Zempilas. In contrast, Reynolds emphasizes a collaborative approach, having already initiated communication with Cook. “The first thing I had to do was make sure we started talking again,” he remarked.
As Reynolds embarks on his term, which extends until October 2027, he has set ambitious goals for Perth. His foremost priority is to transform the city into “the safest city in Australia.” He believes that achieving this status will enhance business investment and attract tourists. “If someone Googles ‘safest city in Australia’ and Perth comes up, that changes everything,” he explained, expressing optimism about accomplishing this within three years if all government levels commit.
Reynolds also envisions a significant shift in Perth’s identity from the “City of Light” to the “City of Bright.” He believes that attracting international university campuses to the central business district could invigorate the city, addressing issues of vacant storefronts and revitalizing urban life. “If we can fill a space like David Jones with students, imagine the energy of the city,” he said.
His background informs his determination and leadership style. Raised in state housing and having faced various challenges, including moving schools multiple times and struggling with literacy until the age of nine, Reynolds credits his resilience to his upbringing. “I’m not the smartest person in the room, but I can control doing the right thing,” he stated. His passion for Australian Rules Football (AFL) became a source of confidence, as he learned to appreciate statistics and analytics.
Reynolds’ leadership philosophy emphasizes hard work and integrity. “I can control working harder than anyone,” he asserted. He aims to approach the role with humility, recognizing that success may not always be measured by public recognition. “History will be the judge,” he mused. “If I end up being the mayor who made Perth the safest city, or the one who helped the homeless, or even if no one remembers me at all, that’s fine.”
As Perth looks to the future, Reynolds will need to navigate the challenges ahead while fostering a collaborative environment for the city’s growth. His leadership will be pivotal in reshaping public perception and enhancing the quality of life for Perth residents.
