In Western Australia, the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale has made a proactive call for help with its culture and governance.
In an urgent business motion at its meeting this week, the Council resolved to formally request that the Local Government Inspector, Tony Brown, appoint a Monitor to the Shire.
This follows a 2025 report into psychosocial risks and workplace management, which Cr Kim Glisenti told the meeting raised concerns about “harmful behaviours, including bullying and a lack of understanding of proper behaviour.”
In a statement, the Shire said it is already rolling out new training and reporting processes for staff and councillors.
Speaking to the meeting, Shire President Rob Coales described the last six months as the worst of his life, and challenged all councillors to look at their social media behaviour… describing “lies, mistruths and nasty” comments on Facebook.
There were two confidential matters listed for this week’s agenda, relating to alleged behavioural breaches under its code of conduct. The urgent business item followed the confidential session.
The request for a monitor comes after the Inspector’s powers were expanded in January, and the appointment of monitors at Perth, South Perth, Port Hedland, and Nedlands Councils.
The Shire says it welcomes the opportunity to work with Mr. Brown as he reviews the request.