Councillor Bilal El-Hayek has been re-elected unopposed as Mayor of the City of Canterbury Bankstown, at an extraordinary meeting of Council last night.

Councillor Rachelle Harika was also re-elected unopposed as Deputy Mayor.

Mayor El-Hayek thanked his family, friends and supporters in the public gallery for their encouragement and attendance.

“I am honoured to have been re-elected as Mayor of Canterbury-Bankstown and thank my fellow councillors for their continued confidence and support,” Mayor El-Hayek said.

“It is a privilege to represent one of Australia’s most diverse and dynamic communities, and I remain committed to working collaboratively with councillors, staff and our community.

“The months ahead will mark a significant chapter for our City, with major projects that will position Canterbury-Bankstown at the forefront of growth and innovation.

“The new Canterbury Leisure and Aquatic Centre will be a world-class facility for our community – I can’t wait to dip my big toe in.

“The Sydney Metro will unlock new investment opportunities, support local businesses and improve connectivity across our City. These projects will complement the new $2 billion Bankstown Hospital and $400 million Canterbury Hospital redevelopment as they take shape.

“As master planning progresses across our town centres, we can also expect to see new housing, local jobs and economic growth delivered for our community.”

Mayor El-Hayek arrived in Australia in 1999, at the age of 12. Not speaking a word of English, he temporarily resided in Lakemba before eventually settling in Greenacre.

He was elected to the City of Canterbury Bankstown in September 2017 and has served twice as Deputy Mayor. He was first elected Mayor in May 2023.

Mayor El-Hayek congratulated Deputy Mayor Harika on her appointment. She is a lifelong Yagoona resident and has been a Councillor for the Bass Hill Ward since 2017.​