Former AFA Chief Olly Arkins Named Deputy Lord Mayor of Sydney

Empty floodlit stadium at night lit in red, white and blue, with a rhinestone cowboy hat and sequined boots on the track
Thematic illustration generated with AI for Music Industry Weekly.

Olly Arkins, former CEO of the Association of Festival Agents (AFA), has been appointed Deputy Lord Mayor of Sydney. The move marks a shift for Arkins from live music industry leadership into municipal government.

Arkins said his priorities include improving quality of life in Sydney and boosting the city’s appeal as an international destination. His background in festival and event advocacy is expected to inform his approach to civic policy, particularly around culture and tourism.

Read the full story at Billboard.