Patrick Maher
Central Ward Councillor
I've lived and worked within the Adelaide square mile since 2018, experiencing Adelaide on day-to-day (and night) basis.
As your local independent representative, this informs my positions on-street parking and residential parking permits, city planning and sustainable development, support for local business and our local public culture, and a careful and pragmatic balance between the events that bring so much economic stimulus to our city and the needs of Adelaide's residents to go about their lives. Likewise, I have a responsible, respectful, view of the Park Lands, their use, and preservation for future South Australians.
I’ve been a music industry professional since 2010, teaching for a decade in over a dozen schools and studios. I'm a performer, producer, and musical director of Adelaide Fringe shows and smaller local festivals. I hold a Diploma in Music and a Graduate Certificate in Music Teaching from the Elder Conservatorium, University of Adelaide.
I'm a staunch advocate for the rights and needs of people with disability. At Services Australia I founded the Graduate Disability Mentorship Group in 2022, the Autistic Advocacy Group in 2023, and in 2024 I was appointed an inaugural Disability Inclusion Agent. I’ve also worked in disability arts for years, including a teaching niche for autistic students.
Most people know me as Strategy Director for the Save The Cranker campaign. I led our policy platform, strategic direction, written output, stakeholder engagement, and media/public relations. I studied a Bachelor of Architectural Engineering and despite not completing it, the experience was key to the success of the campaign.
I currently worked for the Australian Public Service, completing the Services Australia Graduate Program, leading the winning Grad Challenge team, and working on projects related to the Robodebt Royal Commission, the Disability Royal Commission, neurodiversity recruitment and career support, and policy administration. I have a Diploma in Government, Graduate Certificate in Legal Studies, and ongoing study towards a Juris Doctor at the University of Canberra.