Mayor Tanya Taylor was popularly elected to Willoughby City Council in December 2021, and is the third female Mayor in the Council’s 157-year history. Mayor Tanya is proud to lead this inclusive and diverse Council, which includes six female Councillors.
As Mayor, Tanya is committed to working with the community to ensure Willoughby continues to flourish and evolve. Her focus is on creating a sustainable and enjoyable environment, fostering a social and supportive atmosphere for residents and businesses.
Tanya is passionate about including the community in Council’s decision-making and would like to see more opportunities for public input. She supports the development of a more accessible and inclusive environment for everyone and celebrating Willoughby’s vibrant multiculturalism.
As a strong advocate for environmental sustainability, Tanya champions eco-friendly initiatives such as increasing and protecting the urban tree canopy, promoting renewable energy solutions, and encouraging sustainable urban planning. She is committed to ensuring that development complements and respects Willloughby’s built and natural environments as well as its heritage aspects. Aware of the pressures on the local government area, Tanya advocates for the delivery of appropriate infrastructure, affordable housing and community services.
Tanya is passionate about supporting Willoughby’s visual and performing arts scene, advocating for access, inclusion, and celebrating multiculturalism. A key priority for the Tanya is positioning Chatswood as the cultural heart of Sydney’s North Shore, through venues such as the state-of-the-art Concourse and local talent such as the world-class Willoughby Symphony Orchestra. She also promotes the diverse arts and cultural programming provided by Council.
Recognising the vital role small businesses play in the local economy, Tanya is committed to ensuring they thrive by fostering a supportive environment through Council policies, local events, and economic development programs.
Tanya is proud to have led the Council through significant challenges, adapting services to support community resilience and economic recovery. She continues to champion Willoughby as a place where people can live, work, and play in a connected, sustainable, and vibrant community.
Tanya has a long record of community participation through a range of local organisations and for worthy causes including Taldumande Youth Services, 1st Sailors Bay Sea Scouts, Willoughby Public School P&C, Willoughby Community Special Needs Pre-School, Cancer Council NSW and the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. She continues to be an active and passionate volunteer in community-based organisations throughout Willoughby and has represented Council and the community on the Sydney North Planning Panel and the Northern Sydney Region Organisation of Councils.
Tanya has a background in event and project management, and experience working in local government at the City of Sydney. She holds a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Community Development which enhances her work as Mayor.
Tanya lives with her husband, three children and two Jack Russell Terriers in Willoughby.