Chief Executive Officer
Belinda Urquhart
The Chief Executive Officer provides effective and instrumental senior leadership for MacDonnell Regional Council. Main responsibilities include setting future direction of the council, managing operations and resources with an emphasis on long-term goals, growth and sustainability.
The Executive Leadership Team (ELT) comprised of the Directors Corporate Services, Director of Service Centre Delivery, Director of Technical Services and Director Community Services report to the CEO and provide continual communication and engagement of the overall operations for council.
The CEO’s responsibilities also include being an active decision-maker on set strategies and other key policy issues.
About Belinda
Belinda Urquhart is the Chief Executive Officer of MacDonnell Regional Council, bringing a wealth of leadership experience from both government and non-government sectors. Since stepping into the role, she has been dedicated to driving positive change and long-term sustainability across the 13 remote communities under the Council’s care. With a strong focus on cultural change management and organisational development, Belinda has successfully led efforts to improve service delivery, employment opportunities, and community well-being.
Belinda’s leadership style is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and engagement. She believes that listening to the voices of the community is central to delivering services that are both relevant and impactful. By working closely with Local Authorities, Belinda ensures that Council decisions reflect the unique needs and aspirations of the communities. Her hands-on approach and regular interactions with residents, Local Authority members, and stakeholders demonstrate her commitment to building strong relationships across all levels.
Under her leadership, MacDonnell Regional Council has strengthened its position as a major employer of Aboriginal people in Central Australia, providing meaningful employment and career development pathways. Her focus on training and empowering staff has been instrumental in fostering a stable and skilled workforce, ensuring that Council services are delivered with consistency and quality.
Belinda also places a strong emphasis on strategic planning and financial responsibility. With her guidance, the Council has navigated financial challenges while maintaining service delivery standards and supporting community infrastructure projects. She is motivated about ensuring that MRC remains a relevant and progressive organisation, adapting to the changing needs of the region while continuing to meet long-term goals.
If Belinda’s extensive leadership experience has not already impressed you, she is also a Registered Midwife (Bachelor of Science) specialising in Neonatal Intensive Care and continues to practice when needed. Additionally, she is an Accredited Mediator with the Australian Mediation Association and a Prosci Certified Change Manager. These diverse qualifications highlight her ability to serve communities in various ways, further enriching her role as CEO.
Her vision for the future is one of sustainable development and community empowerment. Belinda recognises that the strength of MacDonnell Regional Council lies in the unity of its people and the importance of collaboration with Federal and Territory governments. Through her leadership, MRC continues to enhance the quality of life in Central Australia, striving to create stronger, more resilient communities that reflect the richness of the region’s cultural heritage.