The City of Ryde has become an official Supporter Council of an important Taskforce advocating to the Federal Government for fairness, compassion and dignity for people seeking asylum.
The Mayoral and Councillor Taskforce Supporting People Seeking Asylum coordinates the Back Your Neighbour campaign - a coalition of more than 40 councils, supported by community organisations and individuals.
Council's participation stems from a resolution carried at its 18 November 2025 Ordinary Meeting.
Councillor Tina Kordrostami, who presented the Notice of Motion recommending Council's support of Back Your Neighbour at that meeting, has been nominated as City of Ryde's representative on the Taskforce.
Clr Kordrostami, who fled from Iran to Australia with her family when she was five years old, brings a strong interest in social inclusion and community wellbeing and looks forward to participating in Taskforce discussions and activities.
City of Ryde Mayor Trenton Brown (pictured with Clr Kordrostami, above) said Council was committed to fostering an inclusive, welcoming and compassionate community.
"The City of Ryde is one of the most culturally diverse local government areas in NSW," he said. "Over 50 percent of our residents were born overseas, and a significant proportion identify as migrants, refugees, or people seeking asylum.
"As such, we recognise the important advocacy and coordination role that the Back Your Neighbour campaign plays in supporting people seeking asylum across Australia.
"Council welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the Taskforce by sharing local government perspectives, participating in collective advocacy, and supporting the objectives of the campaign in non‑financial ways.
"I'm especially pleased that Clr Kordrostami - whose continuing advocacy for vulnerable communities and lived experience gives her a vital and unique perspective - will be our representative on the Taskforce."
Membership in this Taskforce reflects the City of Ryde's commitment to standing with vulnerable communities and strengthening local leadership on inclusion and human rights.
This commitment directly aligns with the City's 2028 Community Strategic Plan, particularly under the priority area "Our Diverse and Inclusive City", which envisions Ryde as "a place where everyone feels welcome, valued, and has equal opportunity to participate in community life."
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