The path was paved for Cr Philips to take over the reins as mayor on Wednesday, after Councillor Amy Johnson withdrew her mayoral nomination hours before applications closed at 5pm on Wednesday.

Cr Johnson was the only other councillor to nominate herself for the top job.

Councillors Des Hudson and Peter Innes initially said they would apply for the position but did not submit applications. 

Cr Philips said he was "humbled and honoured" to be elected mayor of Ballarat.

"My focus will certainly be on finding resolutions to long-standing issues such as the Ballarat saleyards," Cr Philips said. 

"But I will also be focusing strongly on working with all political parties to ensure Ballarat is a focal point and priority coming into the state election this year."

Cr Philips has lived in Ballarat his entire life and his family ties to the region span more than 160 years.

He said his focus over the next two months as mayor would also be on increasing community consultation with residents and strengthening the relationship between residents and the City of Ballarat. 

"'I'd like to increase communication and consultation with the community and action groups around what's happening to keep them involved in the process of making decision for Ballarat," Cr Philips said.

This year marks Cr Philips' seventh year on council.

He has not nominated for the mayoral position before and is one of the only councillors who is not affiliated with a political party. 

At midday on Wednesday, Cr Johnson made the surprise announcement via Facebook that she would retract her nomination.

Cr Johnson told The Courier that she made the decision to withdraw her nomination after it became evident that Cr Philips had the support of the broader group.

Cr Johnson threw her support behind Cr Phillips. 

"I believe John will be a great mayor for Ballarat and a strong leader for us as a group of councillors," Cr Johnson said. 

Cr Phillips has only been elected for the remaining portion of current mayor Joshua Morris's term.

Cr Morris revealed on August 26 he would step down from the position after being preselected as a Liberal candidate for Western Victoria.

Another mayoral vote is expected to occur next year.

Cr Philips will officially be sworn in as mayor at the Ballarat Town Hall on Friday night at 5pm.