Arriving in Australia in 2008 with dreams of higher education, the Himachal Pradesh-born community leader has become the first person of Indian origin to lead the City of Greater Bendigo.

What began as an international student’s journey from a small town in India’s Himalayan foothills has become an extraordinary Australian success story.

Eighteen years after arriving in Australia to pursue higher education, Abhishek Awasthi has made history by becoming the first Mayor of Indian origin in the City of Greater Bendigo, Victoria.

In a milestone for the Indian-Australian community, Cr Awasthi was unanimously elected Mayor for the 2026–27 term at a special council meeting held at The Capital Theatre in Bendigo on 9 November.

Originally from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, Awasthi arrived in Australia in 2008 as an international student at La Trobe University, where he pursued postgraduate studies in biotechnology and bioinformatics.

Like thousands of international students who travel to Australia seeking education and opportunities, his journey began far from the world of politics.

He settled in Bendigo in 2010 and gradually developed strong connections with the local community.

What followed was a journey shaped not simply by professional ambition but by volunteering, community engagement and a commitment to helping others.

He became an Australian citizen in 2015.

Awasthi’s contribution to multicultural Australia extends well beyond local politics.

In 2021, he founded the Indian Association of Bendigo, an organisation bringing Indian families together while strengthening cultural connections with the wider community.

His involvement in community organisations, multicultural initiatives and volunteering helped establish him as a respected local leader.

For Awasthi, preserving cultural heritage and embracing an Australian identity have been complementary parts of his journey.

His story reflects the growing contribution of Indian Australians to regional communities, where migrants are increasingly involved in civic organisations, local businesses and public leadership.

Awasthi entered elected local government in November 2024, winning the Kennington Ward seat on Greater Bendigo City Council.

He subsequently became the city’s first Deputy Mayor of Indian origin, serving during the 2024–25 term alongside then Mayor Andrea Metcalf.

Now, just two years after his election as a councillor, he has stepped into the city’s highest civic leadership position.

His election as Mayor represents another milestone for Indian representation in Australian public life.

Following his election, Awasthi expressed gratitude to his family, fellow councillors and the wider community for their support.

In the City of Greater Bendigo’s official announcement, he emphasised the importance of listening to residents, supporting local businesses and strengthening the region’s future.

“Listening to our community will remain at the heart of my approach,” he said.

He also highlighted the role of small businesses in creating employment, supporting neighbourhoods and contributing to Greater Bendigo’s character.

His priorities include encouraging economic development, supporting local businesses and ensuring residents have a voice in council decisions.

For the thousands of Indian students who arrive in Australia each year, Awasthi’s journey offers an encouraging example of what can be achieved through education, determination and community involvement.

His story also challenges the traditional perception of international students as temporary residents whose contribution ends with their studies.

Many go on to become professionals, entrepreneurs, volunteers, community leaders and elected representatives.

Awasthi’s journey demonstrates how a student who arrived in Australia seeking educational opportunities can eventually help shape the future of the community he calls home.

The election of Abhishek Awasthi as Mayor of Greater Bendigo is more than an individual achievement.

It reflects the evolving story of multicultural Australia, where people from diverse backgrounds are increasingly contributing to leadership and decision-making.

From Mandi in Himachal Pradesh to the mayoral office in regional Victoria, his journey is one of perseverance, community service and opportunity.

For Indian Australians, it is a moment of pride. For international students, it is a reminder that their Australian journey can lead far beyond the classroom.

And for multicultural Australia, it is another example of how diverse communities continue to contribute to the nation’s shared future.

From international student to Mayor, Abhishek Awasthi’s journey is a story of ambition, belonging and the power of community service.

  Abhishek Awasthi, Bendigo Mayor, Himachal Pradesh, Indian Australian Mayor, Indian Diaspora Australia, Indus Age, La Trobe University