Asta Hill has become the first mayor backed by the Greens in Mparntwe/Alice Springs, marking a significant shift in local governance. Hill, a criminal defence lawyer and human rights advocate, won the election on August 23, 2023, securing 50.3% of the vote after preference counting concluded on September 5. Her victory reflects a desire among residents to reshape the narrative surrounding this vibrant community.
Growing up in Alice Springs, Hill has a deep connection to the town, which she describes as a “beautiful place to live.” The town serves as a cultural melting pot, home to the Arrernte people and various multicultural communities, making up about one-third of the population. Hill emphasizes the importance of this diversity, saying, “We have this panoply of languages, cultures and traditions … and we’re all living together in really close proximity to one another.”
Reframing the Narrative
Alice Springs has often been portrayed negatively in media coverage, particularly following the Northern Territory government’s declaration of an emergency last year, which included a youth curfew. Hill critiques these portrayals, stating they create a “distorted reality” that disempowers the community. She aims to counter this narrative by focusing on the town’s strengths and the richness of its cultural landscape.
With a professional background in law, particularly in Indigenous outreach through Legal Aid NT and the Central Australian Women’s Legal Service, Hill is well-acquainted with the challenges faced by her community. “I want … to take back some power in writing the story of this town,” she asserts. Her election is seen not only as a rejection of previous tough-on-crime policies but also as an opportunity to promote a more inclusive and constructive approach to community safety.
During her campaign, Hill encountered mixed feelings among residents regarding crime and safety. While acknowledging that many expressed concerns, she stressed the need for evidence-based solutions that respect human rights. “There is a big difference between meeting communities where they are at and fuelling a crime panic,” she explains. This nuanced understanding of community issues resonated with voters, contributing to her electoral success.
A Shift in Political Landscape
Don Zoellner, a former pro-vice-chancellor at Charles Darwin University, observes that Hill’s election reflects a demographic shift in Alice Springs. He notes that the town’s politics have evolved from a conservative base to a more progressive electorate, largely due to an influx of younger, tertiary-educated residents. Zoellner states, “Most of us old farts are leaving or dying. There is a new generation of younger people coming in, who see this town as a place of opportunity.”
Hill’s local ties—she gave birth to her first child in her childhood home—bolster her credibility. Many residents have personal connections with her, further enhancing her appeal. Rolf Gerritsen, an emeritus professor and local political analyst, highlights the effectiveness of the Greens’ organisation in the area, noting they are the only party with a grassroots presence in town. Hill previously ran for the Alice Springs seat in the Northern Territory election, where she placed second with 38.8% of the primary vote.
While she aligns herself with the Greens, Hill emphasizes her independence. During candidate debates, she expressed the need for community dialogue before making decisions on contentious issues, such as citizenship ceremonies on January 26. Her approach indicates a willingness to compromise for the benefit of her constituents.
In her inaugural address, Hill prioritised addressing the chronic childcare shortages in the area, highlighting her personal experience in this regard. “She’s a shrewd Green,” Gerritsen remarks, noting that while Alice Springs embodies the Australian frontier spirit, residents are looking for practical solutions to their everyday challenges. Hill’s focus on pressing local issues positions her as a leader capable of bridging divides and fostering unity in a changing community.
As Alice Springs moves forward under Hill’s leadership, many residents are hopeful that her commitment to inclusivity and community safety will create a more positive narrative for their town.
