Phuong Au
Chief Executive Officer

Phuong became Chief Executive Officer of Ararat Rural City Council in October 2026, bringing almost 20 years’ experience in public administration, funding, project delivery and executive leadership. 

She joined Council as Strategic Project Lead in September 2023 and was appointed Deputy Chief Executive Officer in September 2025. Before joining Ararat Rural City, Phuong spent almost six years in local government in the Grampians region, working in funding and project management roles, following earlier roles in federal government and higher education.

Phuong has helped secure tens of millions of dollars in grants for the Ararat region, supporting roads, sporting venues and community facilities. She has also played a central role in Council’s strategic planning, including budget and annual planning, community health and wellbeing, sport and recreation, and advocacy for regional investment. Her work combines strategic leadership with community engagement and a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing rural and regional communities.

Phuong holds a Master of Business Administration specialising in Leadership from Deakin University, a Master of Science from the University of Melbourne and a Bachelor of Science from UNSW.

Phuong and her family have called Ararat home for more than 10 years. She values the community as a place to live, work and raise a family, and is committed to strengthening the region and delivering meaningful outcomes for its residents.