Three-time Aussie mayor and rising Labor star found dead: 'Enormous loss'

Tributes are flowing for a former Aussie mayor who was found dead in her home on Tuesday afternoon. Police say the sudden death of the Melbourne politician and three-time Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter is not being treated as suspicious, with her body having been located at an address in Village Way, in the city's inner-west, just before 4pm yesterday.

The 45-year-old is being remember for being the first three-time female mayor of Maribyrnong — which encompasses the suburbs of Braybrook, Footscray, Kingsville, Maidstone, Maribyrnong, Seddon, Tottenham, West Footscray and Yarraville — and for her "unwavering and unbeatable passion".

In a statement, the City of Maribyrnong said Carter, who was serving her fourth consecutive term on the council, was a "trusted and valued colleague" with her "passing an enormous loss to our community".

"Council is shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of former Mayor and councillor Sarah Carter," the statement said. "She has worked tirelessly to support [her community] over her 16 years on council.

"Maribyrnong’s first three-time female mayor, councillor Carter was only the second mayor in our municipality’s history to achieve Emeritus status — the highest recognition for distinguished service in local government leadership. We extend our deepest condolences to Cr Carter’s partner, family, friends, and all who knew and worked alongside her.

"She will be greatly missed."

Carter, a member of the Labor party, was first elected in 2008 and served as mayor in 2011, 2020 and 2022. She also worked for charity organisation Save The Children. In 2023 Carter received the Mayor Emeritus Award, which is given to councillors who serve three terms as mayor.

According to some reports about her surprising death, she was touted by some in the party as a future potential Labor leader.

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Community reacts after 'enormous loss'

Victorian MP Natalie Hutchins said Carter was like a sister. "Today I lost a true sister Councillor Sarah Carter — words can’t describe how devastated at the news of her passing," she wrote online.

"Sarah, your work at Save the Children was unwavering, unbeatable and fuelled with passion. Your commitment to the people of Maribrynong was extraordinary — 16 years as a councillor and the only woman to serve as mayor three times. You had a tireless commitment to Labor and for always standing up for women’s rights.

"Most importantly I want to thank you for always having my back, for being my friend and being by my side both professionally and personally. I know International Women's Day will not be the same without you."

ABC journalist and prominent television personality Michael Rowland said he was "rocked" to hear the sad news. "I was rocked to wake up this morning and learn of the death of Maribyrnong councillor and former Mayor, Sarah Carter," he said this morning.

"I would often see Sarah at events in our local community. Her energy, enthusiasm and passion were infectious. Sarah was a true champion of Melbourne’s west and all the people she represented during her 16 years on the council. She will be greatly missed."

A report is being prepared for the coroner.

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