Tom Leeming named as CEO of NT Housing, Local Government and Community Development Department

A senior public servant has been picked to head up the Territory’s mega housing, local government and community development department after multiple leadership shake-ups.

Tom Leeming has been appointed to lead the NT Housing, Local Government and Community Development Department. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Economist and public servant Tom Leeming has been named chief executive officer of the Northern Territory Housing, Local Government and Community Development Department (DHLGCD).

Mr Leeming has been acting in the role for a month, and brings more than 26 years of experience working in and for the public sector in Australia and internationally, including 15 years in senior executive positions and five years living and working in the Northern Territory.

Most recently he was deputy chief executive of the Department of Chief Minister and Cabinet.

The DHLGCD was created in the machinery of government changes implemented by the Country Liberal government after last year’s election.

Luccio Cercarelli was picked as department head, but lasted just four months before jumping across to lead the Chief Minister and Cabinet team.

Amelia Vellar.

Amelia Vellar served as DHLGCD Acting CEO from February to September, when she was appointed to lead the Agriculture and Fisheries Department.

Mr Leeming said he was honoured to lead DHLGCD and build on the strong work underway to deliver for Territorians.

“I’m proud to continue working alongside our dedicated staff and partners to create lasting, positive outcomes for Territorians,” he said.

“Our work is central to the government’s priorities – improving housing stability, empowering the bush and building liveable, connected communities where people feel safe and supported.”

According to his LinkedIn, Mr Leeming worked at Nous consulting group for seven years, leading the Darwin office from 2020 to 2023.

Before that he worked as a senior public servant in the Western Australia Treasury and Department of Premier and Cabinet WA.

Housing Minister Steve Edgington congratulated Mr Leeming on his appointment.

“Tom’s deep understanding of public policy, regional priorities and community needs will be invaluable as we deliver on our government’s priorities – reducing crime, rebuilding the economy and restoring the Territory lifestyle, through safe, secure housing, strong local government and resilient communities across the Territory,” Mr Edgington said.

Originally published as Tom Leeming named as CEO of NT Housing, Local Government and Community Development Department