Newcastle Lord Mayor Race: Steve O’Brien Interview (Socialist Alliance)

As election day approaches in Newcastle, the race for Lord Mayor is heating up. In this special series, we hear directly from the candidates vying for the city’s top job. In this episode, we begin with the first name on the ballot: Socialist Alliance candidate Steve O’Brien. With a diverse background spanning BHP, TAFE NSW, international development, and union leadership, O’Brien outlines the experience he believes makes him a strong contender. He discusses his views on local government, the importance of community consultation, and his commitment to making council more accessible and people-focused. O’Brien also shares his concerns about corporatisation within council, his stance on major spending projects like the ocean baths redevelopment, and why he believes voters should support his campaign. This is part one of a comprehensive series featuring all six Lord Mayoral candidates, presented in ballot order, giving voters a clear and balanced insight ahead of polling day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.