Monash has a new leadership team, with Cr Rebecca Paterson elected Mayor and Cr Paul Klisaris elected Deputy Mayor for the coming year.
Cr Paterson said she was deeply honoured and humbled by the trust that has been placed in her to serve as Mayor.
"I accept this role with a strong sense of responsibility, but also with tremendous optimism for what we can achieve together," said Cr Paterson.
"I know that for many people, these are not easy times. People in our community are navigating uncertainty, and sometimes fear, about what the future may hold.
"When people feel connected, they feel supported. Our community is wonderfully diverse. But our differences do not need to divide us. In fact, they make us stronger.
"Respect begins when we listen, when we are curious, and when we treat each other with kindness and dignity.
"I look forward to working with my fellow councillors, Council staff, community organisations and residents to continue building a community where everyone can thrive," Cr Paterson said.
The newly elected mayor thanked outgoing Mayor Cr Stuart James and Deputy Mayor Cr Elisha Lee for their leadership over the past year.
"We've had to navigate some difficult and, at times, challenging decisions over the past year. These decisions have not always been easy, but they have been made with a commitment to serving the best interests of our community.
"I thank Cr James and Cr Lee for their dedication, their steady leadership, and the thoughtful way they guided Council through those important decisions," said Cr Paterson.
Cr Paterson has been a councillor since 2013 and served as mayor in 2017.
She is passionate about protecting the liveability of Monash's neighbourhoods, increasing tree canopy coverage, and fostering a healthy, connected and sustainable community where everyone feels safe and respected.
Cr Paul Klisaris was first elected to Council in 2000 and has served as mayor 5 times.
As a seasoned councillor, Paul advocates for open and transparent governance and envisions a Council that actively communicates with residents.
Together, Cr Paterson and Cr Klisaris will work with their fellow councillors to support the priorities that matter most to the community and help shape the future of Monash.
