City Mission Congratulates Albert van Zetten AM on King’s Birthday Honour
Albert van Zetten AM - Photo by The Examiner, ACM
City Mission would like to warmly congratulate former City Mission CEO and Launceston Mayor, Albert van Zetten AM, on being appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours, recognising his significant service to local government and to the community of Northern Tasmania.
Chair of City Mission, Tim Holder, said: “A more worthy recipient could not be found. Albert’s contribution to City Mission and to the wider community has been extraordinary. His leadership has left an enduring legacy that continues to benefit countless lives across our region.”
Albert’s involvement with City Mission began as a member of the Board, before stepping into the role of CEO during a period of considerable financial difficulty for the organisation. Through personal sacrifice, hard work, and a commitment to building a strong and empowered team, Albert laid the groundwork for a period of significant growth and expansion.
Under his leadership, City Mission acquired key properties, launched the Mission Shop network, established Morton’s Place in the Launceston CBD and Missiondale at Evandale, and opened or expanded many of the services still offered today. His vision and perseverance were instrumental in transforming the Mission’s capacity to serve the most vulnerable in our community. He had a deep sense of personal calling to help those in need and to help the city.
Following his time as City Mission CEO, Albert was elected Mayor of Launceston, where he served with distinction as the city’s longest-serving mayor. His steady, focused and humble leadership helped guide a city-wide transformation through initiatives such as the Launceston City Deal, Riverbend Park, mall and civic square redevelopment, CH Smith development the relocation of the University of Tasmania campus into the city, and major upgrades to key civic infrastructure including QVMAG, Albert Hall and York Park. Mr Holder said, "Albert approach is one of collaboration, calm energy and achievement". The Council was strong, united, and worked well together under Albert's leadership and guidance.
“On behalf of the entire City Mission community, we extend our deepest thanks and warmest congratulations to Albert for his faithful, diligent, and profoundly impactful service to both City Mission and Launceston. His life’s work stands as an example of servant leadership and a wonderful example to us all”, Mr Holder said.