From arriving in Australia unable to speak English to becoming one of the youngest mayors in the country, Bilal Hayek’s story is one of resilience, service and deep community connection. 

In this episode of Uncommon Ground, Bilal reflects on his migration journey from Lebanon, the challenges of adapting to a new country, and the teachers and mentors who shaped his path. He shares how an unplanned career in youth work led him into politics, and what it really means to represent one of Australia’s most diverse communities. 

The conversation also explores the realities of local government, the pressures of public office, and the importance of standing up to racism and division with leadership grounded in respect, inclusion and action. 

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Links 

Learn More About Talal talalyassine.com.au 

LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/talaly 

Facebook facebook.com/talal.yassine.1 

Instagram instagram.com/talalyassine 

Episode Running Order 

• Early memories in Lebanon and childhood influences (00:52) 

• Migration to Australia at 11 and adapting without English (01:55) 

• Family background, education and growing up between cultures (04:02) 

• Understanding the contrast between life in Lebanon and Australia (11:32) 

• The challenges of starting over and facing racism in school (14:42) 

• The role of teachers and school experiences in shaping his path (18:09) 

• Wanting to become a tradie vs pressure to pursue formal education (23:07) 

• Starting a karate dojo and early leadership experiences (24:28) 

• Marriage at 20, fatherhood and financial pressures (27:10) 

• Living with parents and the importance of culture and family (28:20) 

• Early career in youth work and finding purpose through service (31:49) 

• Joining PCYC and working with young people for a decade (32:50) 

• Accidental entry into politics and joining the Labor Party (34:23) 

• Running for council and becoming Deputy Mayor, then Mayor (36:33) 

• Leading one of Australia’s largest and most diverse LGAs (38:04) 

• Understanding local government systems and community expectations (39:09) 

• The realities of being on the frontline of government (43:03) 

• Balancing community needs, limited resources and public expectations (44:31) 

• Lakemba Nights, controversy and responding to public criticism (46:52) 

• Addressing racism, hate speech and political division (49:56) 

• Leadership philosophy: unity, respect and inclusion over politics (52:24) 

• The pressure of public office and staying grounded (54:55) 

• What’s next: politics, youth work and staying open to opportunity (57:42) 

• Major developments shaping Canterbury-Bankstown’s future (01:00:34) 

• Quick-fire: chocolate, misconceptions and life lessons (01:02:23)