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The former Gilmore MP hopeful was named as Shoalhaven City Council’s new general manager by Mayor Patricia White on Tuesday evening.
Information released by the Office of Local Government reveals the job had an annual pay packet of $383,952 in 2021.
While Mr Constance’s exact pay is not clear, the 2021 rate would but him just behind Premier Chris Minns, who is paid $416,440 per annum.
The appointment triggered a furious reaction from Gilmore MP Fiona Phillips, who beat out Mr Constance, a former state minister, for the federal in 2022 and 2025.
She said she’d “lost all confidence” in Ms White and the council as a result of the appointment and would be writing to NSW Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig.
“Mr Constance has no local government employment experience,” she said.
“During the 2025 federal election, the Shoalhaven Mayor, councillor Selena Clancy and councillor Jason Cox were actively supporting Andrew Constance.
“This smacks of political bastardry, there must have been other applicants on the merit list with local government employment experience.
“It reeks of ‘jobs for Liberal mates’ and does not pass the pub test.
“It is certainly not in the best interests of Shoalhaven ratepayers.”
Mr Constance served as transport minister from early-2015 to October 2021 before a tilt at federal politics.
Having represented the state seat of Bega, Mr Constance was well known for his stance during and after the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires.
He was, however, unable to secure the federal seat in 2022, narrowly missing out to Ms Phillips who increased her margin in 2025.
In making the announcement, Ms White said Mr Constance’s “proven leadership make him an outstanding choice to guide our organisation”.
“His deep understanding of regional issues, infrastructure, and community engagement positions him strongly to lead the council into its next chapter,” she said.
“We look forward to working with him to realise a bold vision for Shoalhaven – one that champions long-term financial sustainability while shaping a thriving, inclusive future for our entire community.”
Mr Constance will formally begin with the council next week.
His appointment follows a recruitment process led by council and supported by independent advisers Stephen Blackadder Consulting.
