Mayoral Column – Reflecting on progress and achievements for Penrith

Wednesday, 23 September 2026

It is an honour to serve the Penrith community and represent Penrith City Council as Mayor. I feel privileged to have been re-elected this week.

I’m proud of the positive outcomes delivered over the last 2-year term, and the significant work underway to shape a bright future for our region.

Council has long planned for the once-in-a-generation opportunity that is here now, with Western Sydney International Airport opening for passenger flights next month and the metro line to follow.

Guided by Council’s Advocacy Strategy, we’ve pushed for priority projects around housing, jobs, liveability, transport and infrastructure for our community. This has prompted action from the Australian and NSW Governments, like further investment in Elizabeth Drive and opening Penrith Beach through to 2027.

We continue to advocate for the full-length north-south metro line connection - that would open even greater opportunities across Western Sydney.

The St Marys Town Centre Master Plan was endorsed by Council in March 2025 and approved by the NSW Government in February. In July, we turned the sod on the central park project that we expect to open by mid-2028.

We’re creating safer, more vibrant city centres through the Penrith and St Marys 24-Hour Economy Strategy, OPEN, while the Penrith Visitor Guide showcases this City as a special place to live, visit and invest in.

We also proudly welcomed national and overseas visitors for major events including the 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships and the 25th Biennale of Sydney.

Every day, Council delivers services, programs and infrastructure that make a real difference to people’s lives. Over this term, we have built on that work by developing important plans and strategies for places and issues our community cares deeply about, including the Kingswood-Werrington corridor, the Nepean River, flood planning, waste and resource recovery, and disability inclusion — all guided by the Community Strategic Plan.

As more extraordinary opportunities unfold, there are challenges ahead. Council must manage change in a financially sustainable way. You have entrusted us to achieve our shared vision and we take this responsibility seriously. We’re committed to delivering balanced outcomes while responding to growing needs and aspirations.

I look forward to continuing to work hard with my fellow councillors for the Penrith community.

Cr Todd Carney
Mayor of Penrith

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Wednesday, 23 September 2026.