Former state MP, minister Andrew Constance in running for Shoalhaven Council CEO role
A former state minister and two-time federal candidate has put his hat in the ring for a high-paying South Coast council CEO position.
NSW
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A former Liberal state minister and two-time federal candidate has thrown his hat in the ring for Shoalhaven Council’s top job — a role that comes with a huge salary of up to $400,000.
Andrew Constance has applied to become the next Shoalhaven Council chief executive officer, Mayor Patricia White has confirmed.
The former state Liberal MP for Bega and senior Berejiklian government minister is now in the running for the lucrative position.
Mr Constance held key portfolios as NSW treasurer, minister for disability, and most recently, transport and infrastructure minister.
He was contacted for comment on the career move.
The CEO role became vacant after a period of instability at council when Robyn Stevens resigned from the top job on November 12, 2024, and her replacement, acting CEO James Ruprai, quit just weeks ago on July 4.
The CEO is responsible for the day-to-day operations, implementing council decisions, and ensuring the organisation runs efficiently.
Mr Constance’s bid follows two failed attempts to win the now-safe Labor seat of Gilmore.
He narrowly lost in 2022 by just 373 votes, then again in 2025 by a wider 11,393-vote margin.
In his recent concession speech, the self-described moderate — who has championed causes like abortion rights and LGBTQ equality — urged the Liberal Party to reform.
“The Liberal Party is going to have to work hard,” he said.
“You know, it’s going to have to find its heart and soul again, because in the past, it has been a fantastic party.”
The CEO vacancy comes as Shoalhaven Council faces deep financial challenges — with multiple rate rises and dozens of projects scrapped in a controversial cost-cutting push.
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