The City of Newcastle‘s Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge has resigned immediately, citing health reasons as he battles side-effects from recent cancer treatment.
The resignation triggers a by-election for a new Lord Mayor, expected in mid-April.
Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe will assume the role until then.
Mr Kerridge had returned early from treatment to resume civic duties but has now prioritised his health and family. The State Electoral Commission will finalise the election date within the week.