Jim was a long-serving councillor who was a four-term representative of Glen Eira’s southern suburbs which he affectionately referred to as the ‘Paris end’ of Glen Eira. During this time, he was a fierce advocate for sustainable planning, all abilities access and protecting services for the most vulnerable, along with increasing open space and sporting infrastructure. During his time in office, Council invested significantly in these key priorities.

As Mayor, Jim also advocated strongly for the role and financial sustainability of local government. Recognising local government’s unique role in promoting connections to place and quality of life, he worked closely with colleagues across the sector to call for reform which led to inquiries from the Victorian Legislative Council and Auditor-General.

Jim’s term on Council concluded in October 2024 and since that time he has remained a staunch support of local government and regularly appears in sector media to discuss current events.

Jim joins the late councillor Dr David Zyngier AM, former councillor Jamie Hyams OAM and and current Councillor Sam Parasol OAM as other recent recipients of Order of Australia honours.