Tom Tate

Mayor
Tom Tate
13th Mayor of the Gold Coast
Incumbent
Assumed office
28 April 2012
DeputyDeputy Mayor. Donna Gates, Councillor for Division 3
Preceded byRon Clarke
Personal details
Born (1959-01-15) 15 January 1959 (age 65)
Vientiane, Kingdom of Laos
NationalityAustralian
Political partyLiberal National (2008−present)
Other political
affiliations		Liberal (1999−2008)
SpouseRuth Tate
Alma materUniversity of New South Wales
WebsiteOfficial Website

Thomas Richard Tate is a Laotian-born Australian businessman, property investor and politician who is the current mayor of the City of Gold Coast.

He was first elected on 28 April 2012 and re-elected on 19 March 2016, 28 March 2020, and again on 16 March 2024 for a record-breaking fourth term.[1]

Early life

Tom Tate was born in 1959 in Vientiane, Laos, to a Thai mother and an Australian father.[2] His father was an engineer who met Tate's mother, when building an airport for the Americans in Thailand.[3] At 11 months of age, Tate's mother took him to Thailand and falsely claimed it was a home birth in order to gain Thai-born citizenship.[4] His parents separated when his father moved back to Sydney from Thailand in 1970, and Tate joined him a year later.[5]

Tate attended school at Scots College in Sydney where he distinguished himself as a drummer in the school's pipe band.[3] He later pursued higher education and became a qualified civil engineer, graduating from the University of New South Wales in the early 1980s.[6] Initially, he embarked on a career in the construction industry. However, he later transitioned into the tourism and hospitality sector upon moving to the Gold Coast, where he managed his family's Queensland properties, including the Park Regis in Southport.[3][6]

Business career

Tate worked across the world before joining his father's development company in 1994 at the age of 35.[2] In 1992, Tate Sr bought the Islander Resort Hotel in Surfers Paradise,[2] where Tate managed the refitting of the building. In 1993, he took over management of the Islander. During the Asian economic downturn in the late 1990s, he offered hotel rooms for $2 per night, leading to the 1999 'off-peak price war'.[7]

In 2015 he sold the Islander Hotel Resort for $26.5 million.[8]

Political career

Tom Tate was elected Mayor of the Gold Coast in 2012 as an independent,[9] after the previous incumbent, Ron Clarke, resigned in February 2012, having announced his nomination as an independent candidate for the seat of Broadwater in the 2012 Queensland state election.[10] Tate had two previous attempts at the mayoralty before his successful attempt, including as an endorsed Liberal candidate in 2008.[11]

Since his initial election in 2012, Tom Tate's popularity has steadily grown, with his increasing first preference votes in subsequent elections.[12] Notably, Tate achieved more than two-thirds of the preference distribution in each election, demonstrating widespread support for his leadership.[13] This trend continued in the 2024 election, securing him a fourth term as Mayor.[14]

Tate’s 2024 election win was also a record-breaking victory as the City’s longest serving Mayor.[15]

He is noted for his claim that he does not accept political donations and self-funds his campaigns.[3]

Tate joined the Liberal Party in June 1999, and later its successor − the Liberal National Party − when it was formed in 2008.[16] He is also a life member of the Liberal National Party.[17]

Tate's Council (2012 - Present)

Throughout Tate’s tenure as Mayor, he has been committed to three outcomes for the City: keeping rates low, delivering value-for-money services to the community, and reducing council debt.[18]

Tate and his administration have navigated various challenges across council and city development, responding effectively, while also successfully overseeing the hosting of the 2018 Commonwealth Games and recently joining the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic planning committee.

He consistently advocates for a 'have a go' spirit as a cornerstone of his leadership style. [19]

City Economy

Throughout the four terms under Tate’s leadership, the economy has faced a number of challenges that tested the annual budgets each year, such as post COVID-19 inflationary and cost of living pressures.

Under Tom Tate's administration, they have responded to this by keeping rates at or below the Consumer Price Index (CPI) at each years annual budget.[20]

The external council debt has been reduced by over 30%, decreasing from $860 million in 2012 to $604 million in 2020, and further to $575 million in 2024.[21]

Tate also merged Major Events Gold Coast, Destination Gold Coast, Study Gold Coast, and HOTA into a single entity called Experience Gold Coast, saving $7 million annually.[22]

Environment Investment

Tom Tate and his administration have been challenged by environmental activists over his time for a lack of environmental actions and investment throughout the city.[23]

This has placed pressures on his council to respond and invest in City wide conservation and sustainability efforts.

The city has made four acquisitions in the last two years, investing $48.6 million to acquire more than 11,000 acres of land for conservation purposes.[24]

In 2020, the City supported the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital vaccine program, resulting in the rescue and treatment of over 256 koalas.[25]

The introduction of the Natural City Strategy 2032 in 2023 aims to achieve a target of 51% native vegetation cover. This strategy also focuses on designing city growth to protect nature corridors and purchasing land to secure habitats.[26]

The Naturally GC program, initiated in 2008, has been expanded under Tate's leadership, promoting 326 environmental events with 14,000 participants engaged in various activities. Additionally, 40,500 trees have been planted, and 2,300 landcare volunteers have been recruited.[27]

Tate’s administration is developing Greenheart, a 257-hectare site in Merrimac and Robina, to create a new sport, recreation, and event hub to further highlight the need to invest in environmental initiatives throughout the city.[28] This $800 million project will include major event spaces for 50,000 people, 11 new sporting fields, and various social and educational opportunities. It is expected to create 800 construction jobs and 1,500 ongoing jobs, aligning with the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games' climate-positive goals. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2027.[29]

The Advanced Resource Recovery Centre (ARRC) project is also being developed and put forward by Tate in response to the Gold Coast's landfill capacity issues and the devotion to reduce the City’s environmental impact. Construction of the ARRC is set to commence in 2026, utilising innovative technology to convert waste into energy and divert up to 97% of waste from landfills. The project is expected to create over 2,000 construction jobs and up to 170 permanent jobs, enhancing recycling opportunities, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting the city's environmental and economic goals.[30]

Transport and Infrastructure Investment

Since the start of Tate’s tenure, population has increased by over 130,000 residents.[31] This has placed growing pressures on his administration to respond to increased traffic volumes and congestion around the City.

Over these four terms, significant investments have been made in transport and infrastructure projects in response to the growing population.

The Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 project commenced major work in July 2022, costing $1.2 billion for a 6.7km extension from Broadbeach to Burleigh Heads, enhancing public transportation connectivity.[32]

In May 2023, Tate inaugurated the Disaster and Emergency Management Centre, a crucial facility for managing crises after work began in early 2022.[33] The City intends to share its expertise with other councils to replicate similar achievements.

The completion of the Isle of Capri Bridge in April 2022 has increased the capacity for traffic flow, accommodating up to 25,000 vehicles daily.[34] The $34 million Sundale Bridge and Waterways Drive upgrade both were completed in 2021.[35]

Tate’s administration is in the final stages of planning for the Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 4. This project extends 13 km south from Burleigh Heads to Coolangatta via the Gold Coast Airport, featuring 14 stations. The project aims to enhance transportation efficiency, contribute to regional growth, alleviate congestion, and expand active transport options while also planning for the future of the city.[36]

Tate also oversaw a $22.3 million upgrade to the Merrimac Sewage Treatment Plant,[37] enhancing the City's recycled water network. This upgrade saves more than half a million litres of drinking water daily and reduces water charges by $600,000 annually.

Under Mayor Tate's leadership, the Gold Coast's recycled water treatment program is currently being expanded. The project, which will add 70 kilometers of pipelines from Coolangatta to Stapylton, aims to enhance the city's water management. The city currently uses up to 20% of its recycled water, with excess safely released. This initiative provides a reliable non-potable water supply, enhances city greenery, supports local industries, and facilitates agricultural opportunities, contributing to the city's growth and sustainability.[38]

Lifestyle and Community Investment

For a city with a growing population, the City and Mayor Tate have faced added pressure to continually upgrade and provide residents community hubs and spaces.

With more residents in the city, the administration has placed a focus on enhancing lifestyle and community amenities for all.

Key initiatives include the redevelopment of two major aquatic centres in the city, such as the $18 million upgrade to the Miami Aquatic Centre[39] and ongoing works at the Palm Beach Aquatic Centre.[40]

Significant recreational spaces have also been developed, such as Stage 4 of Broadwater Parklands[41] and the 14-hectare Pimpama Sports Hub, attracting millions annually.[42]

Community engagement has been prioritised through projects like the $5.6 million Pizzey Park skateboard park upgrade[43] and the establishment of the nation's first purpose-built reef.[44]

Additionally, measures such as free seniors travel,[45] dog registration initiatives,[46] and green organics bin rollouts[47] aim to improve accessibility and sustainability within the community.

Tate's administration and the City are investing in the Oceanway, a 36 km network of shared cycle and pedestrian pathways along the coastline, including Burleigh Heads, Coolangatta, Currumbin, Main Beach, Mermaid Beach, Palm Beach, and Tugun. The Oceanway aims to enhance beach access and promote sustainable active travel for residents and visitors for a growing population and commit to enhancing community facilities. [48]

Tom Tate is also investing in a 69-hectare park in Mudgeeraba, enhancing infrastructure and creating a high-performance environment for 2,500 netball, rugby league, and baseball club members. The project includes a high-performance centre, 24 netball courts, two additional AFL and cricket fields, a baseball field, and an upgraded bowls facility. This development aims to provide a lasting legacy for the 2032 Olympics and the City for years to come for community lifestyle and community engagement.[49]

Arts, Culture, and Events

With a rapid increase of the city’s population, so has the need for modern art and events facilities.

The city has also witnessed significant developments and expansions in arts, culture, and major events under Tate’s Mayorship.

The establishment of the HOTA gallery, a new $60.5 million art gallery, demonstrated the city's support for artistic expression and cultural enrichment.[50]

The Yatala Film expansion,[51] facilitated by the City, involves priming 53 hectares of land to accommodate four new sound stages, further positioning the city as a hub for film production and creative industries.

The emphasis on being an events city has attracted events such as the Pacific Airshow, Gold Coast 500, Tim Tszyu title fights, and performances by world-class artists such as KISS and Harry Styles.[52]

Plans for the HOTA lyric theatre are also underway, introducing a 1,800-seat theatre to the city's cultural landscape. The new build is expected to generate significant economic benefits, with $376 million in output and $119 million in value added during construction, and annual impacts of $62 million in output and $28 million in value added during operation. It will also serve as a cultural hub, supporting local artists and communities, and offering social and educational opportunities in the arts and entertainment sector.[53]

Tate is also planning to build a flexible indoor entertainment arena for 8,000 to 12,000 attendees, aiming to host diverse world-class events. Market engagement is underway to determine interest and site selection, with a focus on access to public transport and amenities. The $450 million project is expected to create 400 construction jobs and 400 ongoing jobs, benefiting the economy and local community. This project allows the city to remain being an event capital in Australia. [54]

Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games

In 2018, the city successfully hosted the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, attracting global attention and contributing to the city's economic prosperity. Today, post games venues enjoy around 92 percent occupancy with local, national, and international sporting events part of our annual calendar.[55]

A 2018 Study for Queensland by Griffith University revealed several significant findings following the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Queensland's Gross State Product (GSP) was projected to rise by $2.484 billion, which was $477 million more than the 2017 estimate, representing a 20% increase. This growth was largely attributed to new national and international events and increased trade benefits from the Trade 2018 Program. The economic benefit to the Gold Coast was expected to be $1.804 billion, an increase of $100 million from the 2017 estimate.[56]

Additionally, the updated Games budget demonstrated excellent financial management, showing no budget overruns but resulting in a lower economic stimulus than the 2017 forecast. The Games were anticipated to attract approximately 1.266 million visitors to Queensland, 100,000 more than previously estimated. Over a nine-year period, the employment impact in Queensland was estimated to be 21,128 Full-Time Equivalent Years (FTEYs), an increase of about 600 FTEs from the 2017 forecast. [57]

2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games

Tate has also been appointed to join the board of Brisbane’s Olympic and Paralympic Game Organising Committee, following years of criticism about the city's exclusion from planning for the 2032 event.

This decision garnered bipartisan support at a parliamentary sitting in May 2024. Premier Steven Miles praised Tate's understanding of the event's regional value and legacy benefits, citing “He knows the value this event will bring to the region, and the legacy benefits that will flow from 2032, we know the Gold Coast can put on a show – the 2018 Commonwealth Games is a prime example of that. It’s this experience and enthusiasm that I think Tom will bring to the Brisbane Organising Committee.”[58]

Members of Parliament from both political sides also expressed support for Tate's inclusion, recognising his advocacy for the 2032 games.

Minister Grace Grace acknowledged the Gold Coast's significance in the upcoming games, highlighting its provision of six competition venues and a village for 2,600 athletes. She emphasised Tate's championing of the event since its inception and his understanding of its regional and legacy impact. Mr. Kelly (ALP) from Greenslopes highlighted the Gold Coast's successful hosting of the Commonwealth Games six years prior and expressed his support for Mayor Tom Tate's involvement in the Olympic and Paralympic Games organising process, citing Tate's strong support for both the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics and Paralympics. Mr. McDonald (LNP) from Lockyer, welcomed Tate's inclusion, citing his support for previous sporting events and his potential contribution to the Olympic and Paralympic Games organising committee.[59]

Electoral performance

Electoral history
Election First preference Distribution of preferences
2012 37.05% 64.34%
2016 63.86% 73.14%
2020 55.73% 66.93%
2024 51.85% 66.32%

Reviews of conduct

ABC investigation

In September 2017, Tate was the main focus of an ABC Four Corners investigation and resultant program titled All That Glitters,[60] reported by award-winning ABC journalist Mark Willacy.

Following the broadcast, Tate banned ABC journalists from his press conferences.[61] Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk acknowledged the program raised valid concerns about the council's integrity.[61]

In December 2017, Tate filed a defamation lawsuit against the ABC and Councillor Peter Young.[62] In July 2019, he was ordered to pay 90% of the ABC's legal costs for attempting to amend his claim midway through the proceedings.[63] Tate withdrew his lawsuit against Young in December 2019.[64]

In July 2021, a Deed of Settlement was reached between Tate and the ABC, resulting in no adverse findings against the broadcaster. The ABC did not issue an apology or pay damages but covered mediation costs.[65] An Editor's Note clarified that the Four Corners report did not accuse Tate of corruption, and he denied any corrupt conduct.[66]

CCC Operation Yabber

On 2 March 2018, Queensland's Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) announced it would investigate Mayor Tom Tate as part of Operation Yabber, a broader inquiry into the City of Gold Coast's decision-making processes. In May 2018, the investigation was expanded following additional allegations of official misconduct.[67][68]

By April 2019, Tate was cleared of corruption concerns related to council decision-making, asset sales, and the Waterglow development.[69] In January 2020, the CCC released an 84-page report detailing multiple policy breaches by Tate, misuse of taxpayer money,[70] and inappropriate direction of the council's CEO.[71] The report, described as a "scathing rebuke,"[72] highlighted that Tate's Chief of Staff, Wayne Moran, friends, and associates were beneficiaries through his position.[73]

The CCC found no grounds for criminal proceedings against Tate or any council members[74] but referred several matters to the Office of Independent Assessor (OIA). Since the OIA's establishment in December 2018, over 70 complaints have been lodged against Tate, with no findings of misconduct.[75] The investigations led to recommendations and reforms aimed at improving the ethical conduct of local council staff and officials.

Response to CCC investigations

Tom Tate has consistently maintained his innocence, alleging that the CCC overstepped its mandate in investigating him and the City of Gold Coast council. He publicly criticised the CCC and its chairperson, Alan MacSporran QC, calling for MacSporran's resignation. After pressure from various quarters, including Tate, a Parliamentary Inquiry into the CCC's investigation of former Logan City Councillors was launched. The report, released on 2 December 2021,[76] contained significant criticisms of the CCC's actions, leading to MacSporran's resignation in January 2022.[77]

Other misconduct

In December 2018, Tom Tate was found guilty of official misconduct by the Local Government Remuneration and Discipline Tribunal. He was ordered to undergo counselling and pay a $1250 fine for making "untrue and unreasonable comments" on social media, criticising fellow Councillor Glenn Tozer.[78] The comments were related to funding Tozer's MBA through a local university, which Tate deemed inappropriate use of ratepayer funds.[79] Tate admitted guilty in protecting ratepayer funds.[80] Subsequently, another allegation of inappropriate conduct was made against him, but there was insufficient evidence for a finding.[75]

Personal life

Tate has been married to his wife, Ruth, since 1980, and they have four children all residing on the Gold Coast.[6]

Tate is bilingual and speaks two languages fluently – English and Thai – with limited elementary proficiency in Laotian.[6]

References

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Political offices
Preceded by Mayor of the Gold Coast
2012–present 		Incumbent


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