Ms Dagg tendered her resignation from civic office to council's general manager Lotta Jackson earlier this week, citing increasing work, family and study commitments as her reason for stepping down.

She said it was a difficult decision and thanked the Cessnock community for the opportunity to represent them.

"I had not intended to seek re-election but following the year-long postponement of the local government elections, I had expected to continue working for the Cessnock community until the expiry of my extended term," Ms Dagg said.

"However, with increasingly demanding work, family and study commitments, after nearly five years as a councillor and two terms as deputy mayor, I believe the time is now right for me to step aside, knowing my ward and the broader community are in safe and competent hands.

"I'd like to thank the people of Cessnock for their trust and confidence which has allowed me to serve them with dedication and commitment over this time."

A Labor councillor, Ms Dagg was first elected to council in 2016 and served as deputy mayor from September 2018 to September 2020.

She also represented council on the Association of Mining and Energy Related Councils, the Hunter Water Consultative Committee, the Mine Subsidence Board and the Cultural Facilities Committee.

As her resignation falls within 12 months of the September election, council does not intend to hold a by-election to fill Ms Dagg's vacancy.

Cessnock mayor Bob Pynsent expressed his appreciation for Ms Dagg's professionalism and tenacity during her term and made special reference to her tenure as deputy mayor.

"On behalf of the Cessnock community and my fellow councillors I thank Ms Dagg for her hard work and dedication," he said.

"Former councillor Dagg always demonstrated such great commitment to and genuine love for the wider Cessnock community.

"Ms Dagg did a fantastic job of undertaking mayoral activities during her two terms as deputy mayor. I had great confidence in Melanie and was always proud to have her represent me.

"From the Branxton-Greta Memorial Cycleway and development of the Miller Park and Greta Oval Masterplans, to her creating the Maree Callaghan - Young Female Achiever Award, Melanie has been instrumental to so many fantastic projects over the past four years. I wish her great success."