For re-elected Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen, the coming term is about welcoming the changing face of the Ipswich community while making sure the change is well-managed.
Cr Madsen starts his second term with a new divisional partner in Cr Pye Augustine, and is looking forward to that working relationship as well.
“I love the Ipswich community,” Cr Madsen said.
“I want it to be as special for our growing population as it has been for everyone who has lived here over the years.
“I’m not scared of the population growth, but it creates a challenge to make sure everyone has access to community facilities and support services if our population is doubled over the next 20 years.”
Key Facts - Cr Madsen
- Cr Madsen holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Arts degree, majoring in political science and accounting.
- As well as being the equal-youngest councillor in Ipswich’s history, in March 2022 he became the youngest Deputy Mayor in the city’s history.
Cr Madsen has lived his entire life in Ipswich, moving between the suburbs of North Ipswich, Wulkuraka, Walloon, Silkstone and Ripley.
In 2020, Cr Madsen and former councillor Andrew Fechner were the equal youngest elected representatives in the city’s history at the age of 26.
Four years on, Cr Madsen wants to use his experience to help support his new divisional colleague.
“My priority will be working with Cr Augustine to make sure Division 1 gets the facilities it requires,” Cr Madsen said.
“We have the growth fronts at Redbank Plains and the Ripley Valley, but also a substantial rural area which we need to remain engaged with the Ipswich Council as SEQ changes and infrastructure needs upgrading.”
Representing the largest division in Ipswich City Council, Cr Madsen is looking forward to the challenge of delivering for all its diverse communities.
“I want to see new and old Ipswich come together,” Cr Madsen said.
We need to rebuild civic pride and let the world know we love our city and it’s our time to shine.
Division 1 at a glance
- Division 1 is the largest division in Ipswich City Council, amalgamating both rural and urban suburbs in its 611 square kilometres
- It includes areas of significant current and predicted future growth, such as the Ripley Priority Development Area.
- The division has a current population of 63,633.
Ipswich City Council 2024-2028 Mayor and Councillors at the swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday, 2 April 2024.