Kingborough Mayor Paula Wriedt has announced her resignation from local government, ending a 28-year career in public life. Ms Wriedt, who made history as the municipality’s first female mayor in over a century, will vacate the role on Wednesday, 27 May, to take up a new position as Chief Executive of the Tasmanian Council of Social Service (TasCOSS).

In a statement addressing her departure, Ms Wriedt cited the increasingly “toxic behaviour” prevalent in public office as a primary motivator. She noted a significant rise in social media vitriol and personal attacks directed at councillors over the past eight months.

“I don’t want to be part of that anymore, and the timing feels right to leave and pursue a new career,” Ms Wriedt said. She added that her departure date was strategically chosen to ensure the vacancy occurred within six months of the next election, thereby avoiding the expense of a by-election for ratepayers.

Ms Wriedt’s political career began in 1996, including 13 years in the Tasmanian House of Assembly and a successful tenure as Kingborough Mayor since 2021. Her leadership saw the delivery of the Twin Ovals precinct masterplan, upgrades to Kingston’s main street, and significant investment in local playgrounds.

Deputy Mayor Clare Glade-Wright is set to assume the role of Acting Mayor. However, with Cr Glade-Wright currently campaigning for the Legislative Council seat of Huon, the Council may face further leadership changes. If Cr Glade-Wright is elected to the Upper House, Kingborough councillors will vote to appoint a new Deputy Mayor on Monday, 18 May.

TasCOSS Board President Georgia Ibbott welcomed Ms Wriedt’s appointment, citing her 16 years of experience leading Cystic Fibrosis Tasmania and her deep political insight as vital assets for the community services sector.

Ms Wriedt will also vacate her positions as Vice President of the Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) and as a board member of the Australian Local Government Association.