An internal arbitration process has resulted in a one-month suspension for Merri-bek City Councillor Jay Iwasaki following a series of emails directed at fellow Councillor Oscar Yildiz.
The dispute centres on three emails sent by Cr Iwasaki in June 2025 regarding a proposal to resurface a gravel car park at De Chene Reserve, in East Coburg. In the communications, which were sent to 26 recipients including Council executives and staff, Cr Iwasaki twice used the word “corruption” in relation to Cr Yildiz’s advocacy for the project.
Arbiter Simon Heath determined that Cr Iwasaki’s conduct constituted “misconduct” under the Local Government Act 2020. The Arbiter’s statement of reasons highlighted that Cr Iwasaki “doubled down” on his assertions even after being cautioned by Cr Yildiz and reminded by the Mayor to use appropriate governance channels.
Key Findings of the Arbiter:
- Misuse of Language: The word “corruption” connotes dishonesty or criminal conduct; using it without evidence was deemed “unnecessary, inappropriate, inflammatory and damaging”.
- Failure of Process: The Arbiter found that governance concerns should be raised privately with the CEO or governance officers rather than through mass emails.
- Incomplete Retraction: While Cr Iwasaki sent a third email attempting to withdraw the “unconstructive feedback,” it was only sent to 17 of the original 26 recipients.
Evidence presented during the hearing confirmed that Cr Yildiz had appropriately declared his past role with the Brunswick Juventus Football Club in his Personal Interest Returns and had sought governance advice prior to the dispute.
As part of the determination, Cr Iwasaki has been directed to provide a written apology to Cr Yildiz. His one-month suspension is set to begin following the formal tabling of the report at the Council meeting on 11th March.
Read more: Council Meeting Agenda; Herald Sun report $