In this edition of the Local Government News Roundup:
- Environmental destruction outrage in Kingston
- More changes at the CEO level of Victorian councils
- A council meeting recording taken offline amid defamation concerns
- Applause for a council’s stand on a controversial energy project
- A councillor move to ban Welcome to Country acknowledgements falls flat
- Wagga Council fears lives at risk from inland rail
- Strike action in Brisbane
- Councillor resignations, including five from one WA Council
- And the Canadian council back from the brink after a mass resignation
and more local government news from across Australia and beyond.
Brought to you by the Victorian Local Governance Association, with support from Symphony3 – simple, connected customer experiences.
Listen to this episode here, and find the link for your podcast player here.
Here is all the news from episode 433:
Victorian Roundup:
Kingston Council is demanding immediate action from the State Government after more native trees were felled at Groves Reserve in Aspendale.
Mayor Georgina Oxley has expressed deep frustration at the ongoing environmental destruction, as the Level Crossing Removal Project continues to remove mature Coastal Banksia trees, some dating back more than 180 years.
The Council has unanimously passed a resolution calling for an urgent meeting with the Transport Infrastructure Minister and the local Member for Mordialloc.
It is also demanding a full assessment of remaining trees and a review of future infrastructure projects to prevent similar destruction.
The CEO of Glen Eira City Council, Rebecca McKenzie, has announced she will step down in August from the position she has held for nine years.
Ms McKenzie said she has no firm plan for beyond her current role, but that she would “stay connected to public purpose and local government.”
She is expected to continue in her role as Chair of Zoos Victoria.
Recruitment for her replacement will commence soon, through Future Leadership.
Ms McKenzie’s announcement brings the number of Victorian Councils currently in the market for a new CEO to an unprecedented total of twelve.
Hobsons Bay City Council has appointed Kerry Thompson as Acting CEO, effective this coming Monday.
The former Wyndham Council and MAV CEO brings more than 25 years of government experience to the role.
Mayor Daria Kellander has thanked Acting CEO Rachel Lunn for guiding the organisation through recent challenges. MsLunn will return to her permanent role as Director of Sustainable Communities next week.
Ms Thompson steps in as external and internal investigations continue at the council, during which the CEO Aaron van Egmond and other senior executives are suspended from duty.
Golden Plains Council has appointed its director of infrastructure and environment Phil Josipovic to act as Chief Executive Officer, following the departure of Shane Walden from the role this week.
The appointment is for 28 days.
The recording of this week’s Colac Otway council meeting has been removed over potential defamation concerns, after a former councillor used the public question time segment to level accusations against the council’s chief executive.
Tosh-Jake Finnigan made claims about CEO Anne Howard’s involvement in an incident involving a car and a school student, allegations that the Ms Howard has refuted.
The Geelong Advertiser reported late yesterday that the council had removed online access to the meeting recording while it sought advice on ‘defamation risk.’
Alpine Shire Council has voted to formally oppose the proposed Battery Energy Storage System in Dederang.
The controversial project, put forward by Mint Renewables, has faced substantial community pushback.
Alpine Shire Mayor Sarah Nicholas said that while the Council supports renewable energy initiatives, concerns over fire risks, environmental impact, and community safety led to their decision.
The Council will submit a detailed objection letter to the Planning Minister, citing eight key concerns including bushfire risk and the protection of agricultural land.
The Border Mail reported that a crowd of around 200 people erupted in applause when the Council voted to overrule an officer recommendation in support of the project this week.
Brimbank Council says the announcement of an additional $2 billion in Federal Government funding for the Melbourne Airport Rail project and Sunshine Station transformation marks a significant milestone in addressing critical infrastructure needs for Melbourne’s west.
The funding, alongside previously committed funds from both Federal and State Governments, will support the ‘Rail before Runway’ movement, aiming to establish sustainable public transport connections before the third runway opens at Melbourne Airport in 2031.
The Age reported that the rail link could be open earlier than expected now as a result of the extra federal funds, and the state government has brought forward its plans to turn Sunshine station into a major transport hub.
The Prime Minister’s announcement this week also suggested the works would enable the long planned electrification of the Melton railway line.
A string of major housing and planning related announcements from the State Government continued yesterday, with the announcement of the locations of the next 25 Train and Tram Zone Activity Centres.
The government says the new planning controls will be designed alongside councils and community, ensuring inner city areas are geared for growth in the years to come.
The Age reported that Yarra and Melbourne will become ‘citywide’ activity centres, and reported reaction from the mayors of Yarra. Merri-bek, Greater Dandenong and Glen Eira.
Victorian Briefs:
Maribyrnong City Council has received a $2.5 million grant to transition its Aquatic Centre from natural gas to electricity, which will reduce emissions by 1,220 tonnes and save approximately $400,000 annually in operational costs.
Gannawarra Shire Council is set to become one of a select group of municipalities in the country to implement a three-month trial of incontinence product disposal bins in accessible public toilets.
The bins will be placed in nine locations, with the future of the service to be determined following an evaluation of the trial’s impact.
The state government is partnering with Cardinia Shire Council to build a new two-room kindergarten in Lang Lang that will provide 64 additional free kinder places.
The $3M investment is part of a new Building Blocks Partnership deal agreed with the council.
Small business owners in East Gippsland are set to receive a digital skills boost, with the local council launching a series of free workshops and mentoring sessions.
The program, delivered in partnership with digital innovators GippsTech, will help local entrepreneurs strengthen their online presence and technological capabilities.
ABC News reports on six regional councils that are pushing back against a new emergency services levy they say will unfairly burden rural ratepayers.
The Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, set to replace the current Fire Services Property Levy this July, will see variable rates more than double in most areas.
Some Councils are calling it “a tax” that disproportionately affects regional communities.
Mansfield Mayor Steve Rabie has expressed strong opposition to the scheme and will be a guest of this week’s edition of VLGA Connect to discuss his concerns.
A transport mishap in Ararat has sparked an investigation and demands for compensation after a massive wind turbine blade became stuck in residential streets.
ABC News reported that the 70-meter blade’s journey through the town came to a halt when it couldn’t navigate a corner, forcing authorities to remove a tree and street signs to free the oversized load.
Ararat Rural City Council is now seeking compensation from the transport operator for damages and breaching permit conditions related to school bus route timing.
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has launched an investigation into the incident.
In a reversal of a 2023 decision, Ballarat City Council has voted to keep its current weekly waste collection schedule intact, while introducing a new fortnightly FOGO service beginning in November.
The Council is also preparing to roll out a monthly glass collection service with purple-lidded bins in November 2025, as part of new State Government requirements.
Join the VLGA for a special lunch event on Tuesday 4th March to launch the results of the its first ever Victorian Councillor Census
Facilitated by Tanja Kovac, CEO Gender Lens Australia, two panels will take a dive deep into the results, hear first hand perspectives and experiences from past and present councillors and get insight into how the sector, and the VLGA, is planning to respond.
Don’t miss your chance to network with your fellow members and share your own experiences.
Visit vlga.org.au to book your ticket now.
National Roundup:
NSW:
From the Daily Telegraph, a motion at Cumberland Council to abolish Welcome to Country acknowledgments at council events has been overwhelmingly rejected, after Councillor Steve Christou found himself without a single supporter for the proposal.
Councillor Christou claimed to be “standing up for equality,” citing that only 0.6 percent of Cumberland’s population identifies as Indigenous and pointing to the area’s strong “No” vote in the Voice referendum.
However, the motion faced fierce opposition, with Liberal and Labor councillors questioning the need for the proposal and accusing Cr Christou of hypocrisy.
Tensions escalated between Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun and councillors this week, resulting in a walkout during a council meeting, according to the Daily Telegraph.
The walkout came after a motion to discuss work, health and safety issues in confidential session was rejected.
The incident occurred after Councillor Peter Ristevski’s motion to potentially remove Mayor Mannoun as council spokesman during an ongoing public inquiry.
The motion was deferred after the walkout.
In a contentious decision, Maitland City Council has voted to reduce its public meetings to just once a month.
The change was approved by a narrow margin of 7 votes to 6, with only Penfold Independents councillors supporting the move, according to a report from the Maitland Mercury.
General Manager Jeff Smith proposed the change, suggesting it would allow for more effective briefing sessions on separate nights.
However, the decision has sparked concerns about transparency, with Labor and Liberal councillors united in opposition.
Some councillors also raised concerns about the timing of the change, with Mayor Philip Penfold currently campaigning for the federal seat of Paterson.
The Industrial Relations Commission has approved Kiama Council‘s arrangements for acceptable alternative employment for Blue Haven Bonaira staff as they transfer to new owners Hall & Prior.
The Council announced that the resolution was achieved through collaboration with five unions and ensures staff will retain their employment conditions and entitlements under the new ownership.
Wagga Wagga Council is warning of potential life-threatening delays to hospital access due to the controversial Inland Rail project, according to a report from Region Riverina.
General Manager Peter Thompson says there are concerns that increased rail traffic at the Docker Street crossing could impede emergency vehicles reaching Wagga Base Hospital.
He has warned “people will die” if ambulances are forced to wait at rail crossings.
Inland Rail representatives maintain that train numbers will only increase from 12 to 18 daily by 2040, but the council remains unconvinced.
It is now seeking federal intervention, writing to Infrastructure Minister Catherine King and approaching candidates in the upcoming Riverina federal election to address these concerns.
Sutherland Shire Council has accepted state government planning reforms that will allow four to six storey apartment blocks in ten key locations across the shire.
The changes, taking effect from this week, will affect major centres including Cronulla, Miranda, and Sutherland.
Despite some opposition, a majority of councillors have voted to work with the reforms, according to a report from the St George and Sutherland Shire Leader (26th February 2025).
Shoalhaven Council is implementing a one-year trial to make its public mowing schedule available online, allowing residents to see when their local parks and reserves will be maintained.
The South Coast Register reported (26th February 2025) that the move is in response to community concerns about vegetation maintenance, though some councillors have reservations about the accuracy and feasibility of publishing such schedules due to various operational factors.
The NSW government has mandated FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) collection services for all households by 2030 and for businesses starting from 2026.
The EPA has produced a step-by-step guide for councils to support the introduction of FOGO kerbside collection services.
QLD:
Brisbane residents faced disruptions yesterday as approximately 1,000 Brisbane City Council union members walked off the job in a pay dispute that has now stretched into its fourth month.
The Courier Mail reported that most of the city’s 33 libraries were closed for two hours during the afternoon, while the council’s call centre operated with minimal staff, taking only emergency calls.
Bus services experienced delays as coordination centre staff joined the strike action, with an internal council notice confirming only high-priority calls were being handled during the two-hour stoppage.
The dispute involves The Services Union, the bus drivers’ union, and other unions representing Council’s approximately 7,000 staff members. Negotiations over pay rises and redundancy conditions remain unresolved.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has addressed ongoing social media attacks from suspended Townsville mayor Troy Thompson, advising council leaders to ignore the sidelines and focus on governing the city.
The Townsville Bulletin reported on criticism from Opposition leader Steven Miles towards the state government for allowing Thompson to continue causing disruption while receiving his $225,000 mayoral salary during his 12-month suspension.
The Independent Assessor’s Office has confirmed that suspended councillors are still bound by the code of conduct when acting in an official capacity, though it remains unclear whether Thompson’s use of social media to direct complaints to council staff falls under this jurisdiction.
From the Courier Mail, a report that a discrimination complaint by former Mackay Council CEO Scott Owen was made prior to him resigning on February 17.
The complaint regarded an alleged unsanctioned meeting of councillors at George Christensen’s home
Mayor Greg Williamson maintains there were “no acrimonious circumstances” behind Owen’s exit, and the financial settlement details remain confidential.
The discrimination complaint status is unresolved.
Sunshine Coast Council has taken action against environmental vandals who deliberately poisoned native trees at multiple locations in Coolum, including First Bay and Donegal Drive Environment Reserve, with herbicide testing confirming the presence of toxic substances.
The Council has responded by installing warning signs, successfully prosecuting one case resulting in substantial fines, and continues to monitor affected areas while urging residents to report suspicious activities.
More News Briefs:
Cr Paul Harmon has resigned from Inverell Shire Council after over two decades of service, including a 12-year tenure as Mayor from 2012 to 2024.
The council has extended sincere appreciation to Cr Harmon for his years of service, noting that his legacy includes significant infrastructure development and community advocacy.
Glenorchy City Council has completed the third phase of its signal box wrapping program, which combats graffiti by showcasing artwork created by local school students on traffic signal boxes.
The initiative features special anti-graffiti film to prevent vandalism while beautifying public spaces and supporting Council’s broader Graffiti Management Plan.
Murray Bridge Mayor Wayne Thorley has shared the exciting news that the town has been named as one of Australia’s Top Ten Aussie Towns by travel app Wotif.
He said it is recognition of the beauty and hospitality of Murray Bridge, and a fantastic accolade for the community.
TAS:
The Tasmanian Electoral Commission has conducted the recount of votes to fill three vacancies on Dorset Council.
Nick Bicanic has been elected at the Coxen recount, Vincent Teichmann elected at the Donoghue recount, and James Cashion elected unopposed at the Stein recount, with all three to serve as Councillors until the 2026 ordinary elections.
The City of Hobart has confirmed that it will hold a public meeting on 25th March, after receiving a petition with the required number of signatures opposing the Collins Street Bike Lanes project.
The Council has also this week voted to continue e-scooter services, with the potential to add e-bikes under a new permit.
A survey identified concerns about incorrect e-scooter parking, and the city will ramp up its education and awareness efforts with riders.
SA:
Murray Bridge Council is seeking community input on proposed changes to its rating system.
After a comprehensive review, the Council has found the current system no longer meets the needs of the growing community.
it is proposing to move from a minimum rate of $1,151 to a fixed charge of $750, with adjusted differential percentages for various property types, with a view to creating a more equitable system for all ratepayers without increasing Council’s overall income.
Drop-in sessions and a public meeting are part of the consultation program, with the changes to take effect in the new financial year if approved.
Work is officially underway on the $32 million Whyalla Airport runway upgrade.
Early planning was completed last week and preparatory activities are now in progress at the airport site.
Whyalla Mayor Phill Stone has encouraged local contractors and job seekers to see how they can contribute to delivering a high-quality outcome for the community.
WA:
The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley is facing a governance crisis after five council members resigned on Wednesday leaving the council unable to form a quorum with more than 50% of positions vacant.
The administration, led by CEO Tamara Clarkson, is working with the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries to ensure continued delivery of services to the community.
Former deputy shire president Geoff Haerewa told ABC News that the main reason for the mass resignations was the shire’s poor financial situation. He described it as being “technically broke” and in “the worst negative financial situation we’ve ever been.”
The Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) was notified about the resignations late on Wednesday and confirmed they are working closely with the shire’s CEO.
Local Government Minister Hannah Beazley has declined to comment on the situation at this time.
Perth City Council has voted to end its free night parking initiative in the CBD, implementing a five-dollar flat fee from March 31st.
The council says the move will generate an additional four million dollars in revenue, according to a PerthNow report.
The decision also includes a fifty-cent per hour increase for boom-gated carparks.
The council argues the changes are necessary to avoid a potential rate increase of five-and-a-half percent.
WA’s Carnarvon Shire Council has passed a unanimous vote of no confidence in both state and federal governments over their handling of youth crime in the region.
ABC News reported that the strong stand comes after a weekend incident where state Liberal MP Merome Beard’s vehicle was allegedly stolen by three juveniles and used in a ram raid on a local liquor store, causing $30,000 in damage.
The Shire, located 900 kilometres north of Perth, is demanding immediate action, including increased funding for early intervention programs and mental health services.
Councillor Nicki Jones of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River has resigned while on leave for personal matters, citing circumstances beyond her control that made it impossible to return to her duties.
The Shire will consult with the Electoral Commissioner about filling the vacancy, with plans to hold an extraordinary election as part of the ordinary election in October 2025.
Global Roundup:
CANADA:
A Canadian council was left effectively defunct last week following the resignation of its Mayor and two councillors.
Another councillor has been banned from entering the Strait Shores municipal office following a code of conduct complaint.
CHMA FM reported that the crisis began last week when Mayor Jason Stokes’ resignation was announced at a special council meeting.
This was followed quickly by the resignations of two more councillors, meaning the council lacked enough members to function.
As experts advised the province would need to appoint an administrator until the next municipal elections in May 2026, the two departing councillors have changed their minds and rescinded their resignations.
So it’s crisis averted, for now.
The mayor’s position will now remain vacant for 15 months, while the deputy mayor serves as acting mayor in the meantime.
UK:
In Scotland, Fife Council has been told it needs to save £46m by 2027/28, in a report from the Accounts Commission.
Local Gov dot co dot uk reports that the Council’s revised financial strategy aims to reduce the challenge to £16m.
The Commission has highlighted concerns about growing inequalities and unsustainable health and social care spending.
Suffolk County Council has called for a single unitary authority for the county as part of the government’s devolution plans, arguing it would make public services “simpler, cheaper and quicker.”
But BBC News reported that the proposal faces opposition from other local leaders who prefer multiple authorities to keep decision-making closer to communities.
Final plans are due to be submitted to the government later this year.
BBC News reports that Andrew Jefferies has resigned as the leader of the Conservative group at Thurrock Council, citing the need for fresh leadership amid significant local government reorganisation.
The resignation comes as the Council, which went bankrupt after failed investments left it with £1.3bn in debt, faces potential consolidation with other Essex authorities and the introduction of a directly elected mayor for the county in 2026.
A Somerset Council programme is on track to save over £10 million by March while improving outcomes for residents through innovative Adult Social Care transformation.
The successful initiative, which focuses on promoting independence and enhancing quality of life, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Local Government Chronicle award for ‘Health and Care’.
USA:
Chicago’s City Council has narrowly approved an $830 million borrowing plan in a contentious vote of 26 to 23, according to NBC News.
The plan, introduced by Mayor Brandon Johnson, aims to finance critical infrastructure improvements throughout the city.
The controversial measure has faced significant pushback from aldermen, primarily concerning its hefty price tag and extended 40-year repayment schedule.
In Massachusetts, West Boylston Town Administrator James Ryan has been fired by the Select Board in a 4-1 vote after ordering the facilities director to secretly photograph Trump flags inside private areas of the police department.
MassLive dot com reported that Ryan, who had only been in the position since January 21st, told the board he regrets his handling of the situation where he attempted to have political paraphernalia removed from the police department’s gym and restroom areas.
NZ:
Auckland Council has announced a crackdown on owners of unregistered dogs, issuing 5,500 infringement notices after previous warning notices resulted in some but not all owners complying with registration requirements.
The $300 fines are being implemented as a last resort measure to ensure all dog owners meet their legal obligations and to support the council’s broader strategy of reducing roaming dogs and dog attacks.
Invercargill City Council has reported a significant increase in health and safety incidents involving abuse and threatening behaviour towards council workers.
1News reported that there were 391 incidents in 2024 compared to 203 in 2023.
While acknowledging the trend is concerning, the council notes that abusive interactions represent only a small portion of public engagements and has implemented systems to help identify and respond to aggressive behaviour.