The City of Adelaide took a decisive step toward formalising a sister-city relationship with Athens, passing a resolution unanimously on Tuesday, September 9 to approve a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Greek capital.
The motion was moved by Councillor Mary Couros and seconded by Councillor Keiran Snape.
The resolution confirms Adelaide’s intent to partner with Athens on areas spanning culture, tourism, innovation and sustainable urban living. It also sets out the next procedural steps: the City of Athens must first secure approval of the MoU from its Municipal Council, followed by endorsement from the Greek Ministry of the Interior, before the agreement can be signed by both cities.
To keep the process moving, councillors authorised the Chief Executive Officer (or delegate) to make any necessary editorial or administrative amendments to the MoU in response to feedback from Athens’ Municipal Council or the Ministry, provided those changes do not alter the document’s intent.
Speaking after the vote to The Greek Herald, Cr Couros underscored the strategic and community significance of the partnership. She framed the agreement as more than a ceremonial link, but as a practical framework for collaboration.
“The sister city relationship between Adelaide and Athens is not just a partnership, but a meaningful bridge between two capitals rich in history, culture, and innovation. It brings together the wisdom of one of the world’s oldest cities with the energy and creativity of one of the most liveable,” Cr Couros told The Greek Herald.
“Together we celebrate our heritage, strengthen community and business connections, and share ideas for the future – from culture and tourism to technology and sustainable urban living. This partnership is a commitment to collaboration that honours our past while embracing the opportunities of a greener, more resilient, and connected future.”
Dr Alexandra Theodoropoulou, Consul General of Greece in Adelaide, welcomed the council’s decision. She noted that the outcome reflects sustained facilitation and lobbying efforts by the Consulate, and emphasised that while innovation, the environment, food and festivals are natural points of connection between the two cities, the heart of the relationship is people and Adelaide’s deeply rooted Hellenic community and its leadership across sectors.
What happens next?
With Adelaide’s resolution now passed, the agreement will be forwarded to the City of Athens for consideration by its Municipal Council. If endorsed there, it will then proceed to the Greek Ministry of the Interior for approval. Upon receiving those approvals, the MoU will be signed by both cities, formally inaugurating the sister-city relationship.
For Adelaide, the partnership promises a broadened international footprint – linking a city renowned for its liveability, festivals and innovation ecosystem with Athens’ unmatched historical depth and contemporary cultural dynamism.
The council’s unanimous vote signals strong bipartisan support for a relationship designed to celebrate shared heritage while delivering practical outcomes.
