Chief Executive Officer, Townsville City Council
Joe McCabe GAICD
With more than 30 years of senior executive experience in local government, Joe McCabe brings expertise in financial management, corporate governance, strategic planning and organisational effectiveness. Joe joined Townsville City Council in 2024, bringing with him a track record of innovation, improving service and infrastructure delivery and embedding long-term financial sustainability.


Prior to this, he served as Interim CEO of Alice Springs Town Council, where he implemented a new organisational structure and efficiencies to improve the Council’s long-term financial plan.
Most of his career was at the City of Gold Coast as Chief Operating Officer and Acting CEO, where he led a $1.8 billion budget, introduced governance frameworks and oversaw delivery of key infrastructure projects and strategic plans.
Known for his strategic and values-based leadership, Joe is dedicated to the safety and well-being of his team. He holds a Bachelor of Business (Public Administration) and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Joe’s commitment to growth extends beyond the office as an endurance athlete who has completed marathons, Coolangatta Golds and the Kokoda Challenge.

