A new integrity and accountability framework for NSW councils is being developed, with the aim of ensuring the highest standard of conduct from elected officials.
Local Government Minister Wendy Tuckerman said the changes follow an independent review of the existing accountability framework, which proposed the establishment of independent conduct review panels.
There will also be tougher deterrents and stronger sanctions for councillor misconduct, and stronger mandatory training and development requirements.
Under a planned roadmap, a ministerial implementation taskforce will be established after the state election, and legislative amendments will be prepared to implement the reforms.
Ms Tuckerman said the new framework is targeted to come into effect early next year.