Councillor Sylvia Klonaris

Born and raised in Darwin, Councillor Sylvia Klonaris is a lifelong resident of Waters Ward and proud to have raised her fourth-generation Darwinian family in the city she calls home. Re-elected to Council, Councillor Klonaris brings a deep understanding of local issues and a strong commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community.

With over 35 years of professional experience across the public, private, education, and non-profit sectors, Councillor Klonaris holds qualifications in Business Accounting, Human Resources, Health and Safety and Project Management. She currently works within the Australian Public Service in Facilities and Property Management and has held leadership roles including Vice President of the National Tertiary Education Union and member of the UniSuper Consultative Standing Committee (2012–2021). In recognition of her community service and employment, she was honoured as a Member of the Order of St John Ambulance in 2007.

Councillor Klonaris is also committed to supporting economic development across Darwin by encouraging innovation, strengthening local business networks, and promoting opportunities for sustainable growth. Her engagement with multicultural communities and local sporting groups reflects her dedication to fostering inclusion and civic pride. She believes civic pride grows when communities feel connected, empowered, and supported through inclusive programs, vibrant public spaces, and shared cultural celebrations.

Since 2021, she has advocated to improved accessibility, safer infrastructure, and enhanced recreational spaces for all ages to supporting liveability across Darwin. She is passionate about delivering better services for seniors and people living with disabilities, and continues to advocate for upgraded amenities, lighting, footpaths, facilities, including more community engagement.  Her vision is to help shape a smart, safer, sustainable, and resilient city, one that supports people of all ages and abilities, embraces innovation to become a cooler, greener city that also celebrates the diversity that makes Darwin unique.

She also founded The Women’s Shed NT working in collaboration with HIA to deliver a new initiative in the ward by creating a supportive space for women in Darwin to learn basic construction skills, build confidence and connect with others through practical hands-on workshops.