EPISODE 11: Carol Adams &
The Synergy of Local Govt
Industry doesn’t operate in isolation - it relies on strong communities, infrastructure, and planning to function effectively. In this episode of The Powerhouse Podcast, we’re joined by Carol Adams, former Mayor of Kwinana, to explore how local government plays a crucial role in shaping an industrial powerhouse while ensuring liveability for the people who call it home.
During her tenure, Carol saw Kwinana evolve from a small town into a major industrial hub, with key projects, advocacy efforts, and long-term planning supporting that transformation. She reflects on the challenges of balancing economic growth with community needs, how local councils can work alongside industry, and why collaboration is key to long-term success.
From early zoning decisions to strategic infrastructure investments, we look at how Kwinana’s history and leadership have shaped its future, and what lessons other regions can take from its growth.
Carol shares her insights on balancing industry with liveability, how councils can work with businesses to drive investment, and why collaboration is key to long-term success.
We explore:
• How Kwinana Became an Industrial Powerhouse – The history of Kwinana as a workers’ town, built to support WA’s industrial sector, and how that shaped the region’s DNA.
• The Synergy Between Council and Industry – The vital role local government plays in zoning, infrastructure, and attracting investment.
• The Importance of Industrial Collaboration – Why Kwinana thrived as an industrial hub while maintaining a strong community, thanks to a cooperative approach between industry and local government.
• The Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy – Carol’s work in securing major projects, pushing for Westport, industrial training programs, and urban renewal, and ensuring industry and community could grow together.
• What’s Next for Kwinana? – The ongoing need for investment, smart planning, and balancing industrial expansion with liveability.
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Carol Adams
About Carol,
Carol Adams is the longest-serving mayor in Kwinana’s history, having spent nearly two decades leading one of WA’s most important industrial regions. Under her leadership, Kwinana evolved from a quiet town into a hub for industry, business, and community development, balancing progress with the needs of residents.
Carol was a strong advocate for major projects like Westport, championed economic development and infrastructure upgrades, and worked closely with industry leaders, government bodies, and businesses of all sizes to ensure Kwinana’s continued growth.
Her contributions have been recognised with numerous awards, including the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for services to local government and economic development. Today, she continues to be involved in governance, business leadership, and industry advocacy.
IN THIS SHOW:
Episode Highlights: The Synergy of Local Govt
• How Kwinana’s history as a workers’ town shaped its future as an industrial powerhouse
• Why local government plays a critical role in zoning, infrastructure, and attracting industry
• The importance of collaboration between business, government, and the community
• How projects like Westport and industrial training programs position WA for future growth
• The balance between industry expansion and maintaining quality of life for residents
Carol’s leadership helped shape Kwinana into what it is today—so what lessons can other industrial regions take from its success?
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