In the 23rd January edition of the Local Government News Roundup:
- Council amalgamations ruled out
- The plug pulled on a sector leading engagement panel
- Back to the drawing board for a partially constructed council youth hub
- Mayors speak out on funding rejections and rate capping
- A Sydney mayor’s clickbait criticism
- A suspended mayor under fire for social media attacks on council
- And a Tasmanian mayor quits after the release of a damning board of inquiry report
Plus much more local government news from around Australia and beyond.
The Local Government News Roundup is brought to you by the Victorian Local Governance Association.
Listen to this episode here, and find the link for your podcast player here.
Here is all the news from episode 419:
Victorian Roundup:
Local Government Minister, Nick Staikos, has poured cold water on the idea of council mergers put forth by former premier Jeff Kennett.
Mr Kennett made news last week when he said a rethink of local government reform in Victoria is necessary, reminiscent of the consolidation efforts three decades ago.
Minister Staikos told the Weekly Times (20th January 2025) that the government is focussed on enhancing governance and transparency within councils rather than boundary changes.
Opposition Leader, Brad Battin, has proposed a thorough audit of Victoria’s finances if elected, to include councils, and has criticised the current government for 10 years of shifting costs to councils.
The Municipal Association of Victoria and Regional Cities Victoria are among the voices to urge caution against restructuring without consideration and justification, citing complexities, costs, and disruptions associated with such changes.
City of Whittlesea mayor, Aidan McLindon, has confirmed he will run in the upcoming Werribee byelection, vowing to support whichever major party that advocates for the reinstatement of mandatory Australia Day citizenship ceremonies.
HIs decision to run, just nine weeks after being elected as Whittlesea mayor, has been met with surprise and criticism.
Former mayor and returned councillor Lawrie Cox questioned how running in Werribee aligned with his responsibilities as mayor of Whittlesea, telling The Age he was ‘gobsmacked’ by the decision.
Cr McLindon says he will also use the election platform to highlight issues of relevance to Whittlesea, including calling for a moratorium on the building of waste-to-energy plants, one of which is proposed at Wollert.
Whittlesea mayor plans Australia Day push as he fights Werribee byelection
Mornington Peninsula Shire councillors have voted to abolish a $150,000 citizens’ panel program that paid community members to participate in council consultations.
The Mornington News reported that the decision was controversial, with some councillors arguing it provided valuable community input while others felt the money could be better spent and that unpaid consultation methods would be more effective.
A standing panel established in 2022 was considered an Australian-first and a sector-leading exemplar.
This year’s panel sessions were due to commence next month.
Plug pulled on council’s costly citizens’ panel – MPNEWS
Cardinia Shire Council says it’s partially constructed Youth Hub in Pakenham will be demolished and rebuilt after structural defects were found following the liquidation of Allmore Constructions.
Mayor Jack Kowarzik said the council had undertaken a thorough process to evaluate the future of the youth hub project and to determine the best way forward that ensures timely delivery of the project, retention of grant funding and the best outcome for service partners and the community.
Demolition is scheduled to begin early next month, and a tender process for reconstruction will be commenced.
Cardinia Youth Hub update | Cardinia Shire Council
Yarriambiack Shire Council has expressed disappointment over their exclusion from the Federal Government’s recent Housing Support Program, which allocated $35.8 million across five regional and metropolitan projects.
The Council had submitted four comprehensive infrastructure development proposals aimed at expanding housing and retirement living options in the communities of Rupanyup, Hopetoun, Warracknabeal, and Murtoa.
Mayor Kylie Zanker emphasized the strong community backing for these initiatives and the thorough preparation invested in the applications. She urged both the current government and the Coalition to prioritize funding for rural Council projects, noting the significant impact this setback has on their communities.
Yarriambiack Expresses Disappointment
Macedon Ranges Shire Mayor has denied that the council is delaying the renewal of a lease for the preschool building in Riddells Creek, which was the site of a tragic accident last year.
Cr Dom Bonanno said the council is working to resolve lease arrangements and repairs to the heritage listed building.
While the council says it is prioritising a resolution with all parties, the issues won’t be resolved by the start of Term 1, and arrangements have been made for the service provider to operate from an alternative location.
Update – Macedon Ranges Montessori Preschool, Riddells Creek
The Mayor of Greater Dandenong Jim Memeti has called for a discussion with new Local Government Minister Nick Staikos about rate capping, expressing concerns that the current system doesn’t account for escalating costs that exceed CPI.
While acknowledging the cost of living pressures on ratepayers, Cr Memeti said that maintaining ageing infrastructure and services is becoming increasingly challenging under the current rate cap system.
He has extended an invitation to the Minister for a constructive conversation on service sustainability.
Mayor Calls for Constructive Conversation about Rate Capping
Victorian Briefs:
The City of Melton is set to welcome nearly 1,000 new Australian citizens through three citizenship ceremonies.
Mayor Steve Abboushi will conduct two ceremonies on Friday 25th, and one on Australia Day, the 26th January.
City of Melton to welcome close to 1,000 new citizens
Bayside Council has congratulated local resident Professor Manjula Datta O’Connor on being awarded the 2024 Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year.
The award is for her groundbreaking work in preventing family violence.
Bayside resident named Victorian Senior of the Year
Moira Shire Council is changing kerbside bin collections from next month, moving to fortnightly red lid landfill bin collections and weekly green lid organics collections to promote more sustainable waste management practices and reduce landfill waste.
Time to prepare for changes to Kerbside Bin Collections
The Wimmera Emergency Management Team has developed Fire Ready Guides for Dimboola and Rainbow residents, which contain crucial information about bushfire preparation and safety due to these townships being identified as extreme bushfire risk areas.
Hindmarsh Council Acting CEO Bill Millard said the recent Grampians fires are a timely reminder that natural disasters can happen anywhere at any time.
Fire Ready Guides for Dimboola and Rainbow
Murrindindi Shire Council and community are mourning the passing of former councillor Ilona Gerencser, who has died after a long illness.
Mayor Damien Gallagher paid tribute to Ilona for her dedication to the Kinglake Ranges community, and a legacy of road safety and mental well-being advocacy.
Damien Gallagher, Murrindindi Shire Councillor
Over the next four years, the VLGA will be rolling out a suite of training that directly aligns with the mandatory training requirements set out in the Local Government Act 2020.
VLGA training focuses on enhancing councillor capabilities and ensuring elected representatives are well equipped to represent their communities.
A full program prospectus will be released in the coming weeks, along with a Councillor Professional Development Policy, which will guide councils across Victoria on how to implement the mandatory requirements in a way that best suits their individual councillors’ learning needs.
To find out more or register for the training, get in touch with the team at the VLGA by calling (03) 9349 7999 or email vlga@vlga.org.au
National Roundup:
NSW:
Kiama Council has agreed to meet with three unions in Kiama on Friday to discuss matters regarding Blue Haven staff employment.
In a statement, the Council said that while staff are not obligated to sign letters of offer until union negotiations are complete, those who do sign will remain Council employees until IRC applications are approved and acceptable alternative employment is secured.
Blue Mountains mayor Mark Greenhill has addressed controversy over the council’s swimwear policy for public pools.
The long-standing policy drew global attention after social media debate about its ban on G-string swimwear at leisure centres.
The mayor criticized media coverage as “clickbait,” noting that the policy dates back to the 1980s and is common across Australian councils.
Cr Greenhill told the Blue Mountains Gazette, “There is no new G-string ban. It isn’t exclusive to the Blue Mountains and there is no attempt by the present council to control what any gender wears.”
Northern Beaches Council will next week consider a recommended 39.6% cumulative rate increase over three years despite community consultation showing most respondents preferred a lower 31.1% increase or reduction in services.
The proposed increase, which would raise rates for average households by over $1,000 annually by the third year, will be voted on by councillors on Tuesday amid community protests and concerns about Council efficiency, according to the Manly Observer.
Council bids for 39.6% rate rise in Tuesday vote – Manly Observer
Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun has welcomed the announcement of a $1B upgrade to make Fifteenth Avenue a critical transit corridor from Liverpool to the new Western Sydney airport.
He said the funding is a significant win after a grassroots campaign with community advocates, and he thanked the thousands of people who signed a petition to bring pressure to bear on decision-makers.
Earlier this week, Mayor Mannoun joined with Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne, and Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh to call for an end to all religious violence.
The three mayors – one Muslim, one Christian and one Jewish – are organizing a mayoral roundtable to promote multicultural harmony and social cohesion.
Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun joined Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne and Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh
The Sydney Morning Herald has reported on how Central Coast Council is emerging from a four-year administration period with new councillors focused on fixing infrastructure, environmental issues, and a significant backlog of development applications.
The council has reduced its debt from $350 million to $200 million, and aims to improve community engagement and address key challenges including coastal erosion and speeding up DA assessment times which currently average 154 days.
QLD:
Suspended Townsville Mayor Troy Thompson has been asked to stop using social media to criticise the council’s operations and staff .
ABC News reported that Cr Thompson claims he is acting as a private citizen exercising free speech.
He has used his social media accounts to make various criticisms, including a call for the council to placed into administration, and for the removal of the CEO, senior staff and councillors.
CEO Joe McCabe said the attacks were neither productive nor helpful, and were damaging to the wellbeing of staff and for the council’s reputation.
A council spokesperson confirmed that despite being suspended, Cr Thompson, who is receiving his full salary, is required to follow the code of conduct that applies to councillors.
Suspended mayor under investigation blasts council on social media
Sunshine Coast Council has made a strong plea to retain promised Olympic and Paralympic venues and events for the 2032 Games, in its submission to the government’s 100 day review process.
Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the facilities are essential for the community’s long-term benefit beyond the Games themselves.
The submission specifically advocates for retaining Olympic events including basketball, football, kiteboarding, cycling events, and Paralympic events, along with associated infrastructure.
‘We need these facilities’: Council’s Games plea | Sunshine Coast Council
In related news, Mayor Natoli and her husband, Sunshine Coast councillor Joe Natoli, have announced their separation after 35 years of marriage.
In a statement, reported by the Sunshine Coast News, Mayor Natoli asked for understanding and respect for privacy, and said no further statements would be made.
Mayor and councillor husband announce parting of ways
Brisbane City Council has drawn criticism for the introduction of a $1.98 fee for residents who receive paper rates notices,.
The Courier Mail reported on the council opposition’s claims that the fee is unfair, and proof that LNP-led Council is out of touch with residents’ needs.
National Briefs:
Tasmania’s West Coast Council says it’s working with the EPA and other stakeholders to provide support and on-ground assistance after an oil spill which has led to the closure of popular tourist spot Lake Rosebery.
The fishing and paddling favourite will be closed until at least the 31st January.
Media Release – Lake Rosebery Incident
Former Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart is one of five new appointments to the board of Stadiums Queensland.
Minister for Sport Tim Mander said the new appointments guarantee the right blend of experience and skills to guide Stadiums Queensland towards 2032.
MEDIA STATEMENT: Crisafulli Government announces new appointees to Stadiums Queensland Board
Leeton and Hay Shire Councils have been awarded funding through the Growing Regions Program.
Hay will receive $4.19 million for a new aquatic precinct , while Leeton has been granted $800,000 for the Roxy Theatre expand its capabilities and preserve its heritage Art Deco architecture.
Growing Regions Program—Round 2 projects
TAS:
The Tasmanian Government has released a Board of Inquiry Report into Dorset Council which found significant failures in governance, conduct and decision-making, and it’s been reported the council’s mayor plans to step down.
The board’s findings included:
- a failure by the Mayor and the councillors to adequately undertake certain functions;
- inappropriate and offensive conduct by the Mayor and the former general manager;
- culpable conduct by the former general manager and another former Council staff member, including retributive actions against some community members; and
- that in some instances, the conduct of former staff members has led to the Council acting unlawfully.
Minister for Local Government Kerry Vincent has accepted the board’s recommendations and issued Ministerial Directions designed to restore community confidence,.
Councillors were set to resume office at midnight last night, at which time Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw’s position ceased.
Commissioner Wardlaw yesterday paid tribute to the professionalism and commitment of staff during his time in the role, emphasising that it was always temporary in nature and only for as long as necessary.
Mayor Greg Howard told the ABC yesterday that he would not be returning to his role in the wake of the release of the damning report.
It has taken nearly 18 months for the inquiry to be completed, since councillors were removed and the administrator installed in August 2023.
Dorset Council Board of Inquiry
SA:
LGA South Australia has welcomed proposed changes to minimum garage sizes and parking requirements for new residential developments in Greater Adelaide, requiring one parking space for one-bedroom dwellings and two spaces for larger homes.
The changes aim to address suburban street congestion issues caused by infill development, and follow an extensive review by an expert panel into the state’s planning system.
South Australian councils voted in favour of increasing garage sizes in new homes at LGA’s Annual General Meeting last year.
The City of Mitcham in Adelaide is getting kudos for an innovative project to transform dead trees into wildlife habitats by installing nesting boxes for native animals like possums, birds, and micro bats.
Yahoo News reported that the initiative, which involves careful assessment and installation of habitat boxes by the council’s street tree maintenance team, has been widely praised by locals and demonstrates a commitment to preserving biodiversity in urban areas.
Council’s ‘fantastic’ transformation of dead tree excites Aussies
WA:
Election announcements are ramping up in Western Australia, as the state counts down to elections in March.
Three of this week’s pledges have gained the tick of approval from the state’s local government peak body.
WALGA welcomed two promises from the Cook Labor Government to double Perth’s tree canopy to 30 percent by 2040, and to invest $30M in changeroom upgrades, equipment and events to encourage more women and girls to get involved in community sport.
It also welcomed a promise from the Nationals that if elected they would introduce a comprehensive State Planning Policy for renewable energy projects and ensure that regional communities are consulted, considered, and benefit from renewable developments proposed across the state.
Global Roundup:
UK:
Tewkesbury Borough Council is halting plans to change its name to North Gloucestershire BC, due to potential council reorganisation that could see it cease to exist.
The Local Government Chronicle reported that the council has only spent £100 on the planned name change before the government’s December announcement that all remaining two-tier areas should begin reorganisation by 2028.
Council leader Richard Stanley said the decision to maintain the current name is prudent and in the best interests of the community.
Council set to halt name change plans | Local Government Chronicle (LGC)
In another U-turn, Kirklees Council has abandoned a controversial plan to reduce the size of its grey wheelie bins from 240 litres to 180 litres, following significant public opposition and criticism from local MPs.
The Labour-run council had originally proposed the bin reduction as part of a larger cost-saving initiative to address a £29.3m budget gap, hoping to save £500,000 in the first two years.
Council leader Carole Pattison has acknowledged that they need to find alternative approaches to meet waste reduction and recycling targets.
Kirklees wheelie bin reduction plans thrown out
The UK government is proposing world-leading measures to ban ransomware payments by public sector bodies, including local councils, to make them less attractive targets for cybercriminals who have been increasingly targeting public infrastructure.
The proposals also include mandatory reporting of ransomware incidents and a payment prevention regime.
Councils will be especially impacted as they will need to strengthen their cybersecurity measures and develop robust continuity plans for operating without IT systems in case of attacks.
World-leading proposals to protect businesses from cybercrime
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USA:
Cleveland City Council President Blaine Griffin is resisting pressure to disclose the identity of a council member who was investigated for misconduct
He says it’s a “personnel matter” and has expressed concern for both the council member and accusers, according to Cleveland.com.
Mr Griffin has confirmed that a law firm was hired to investigate complaints brought to council leadership, but he has declined to provide any details about the nature of the allegations or the investigation’s findings.
Council president shields council member’s identity after misconduct investigation
The US Department of Justice has issued a final rule requiring state and local governments to make their websites and mobile apps accessible to people with disabilities, with compliance deadlines of June 2026 for larger jurisdictions (50,000+ population) and June 2027 for smaller ones.
To help local governments meet these requirements, the DOJ has released a comprehensive toolkit that outlines steps for compliance, including staff training, content assessment, and implementation strategies, while emphasising that outsourcing alone is not sufficient for meeting accessibility obligations.
Read more on the preparations for the new requirements at route-fifty.com
CANADA:
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) has launched a public awareness campaign ahead of a potential provincial election.
Called “Vote like your quality of life depends on it,” the campaign focusses on three key areas: reducing property tax reliance for provincial responsibilities, infrastructure investment for housing, and addressing homelessness.
The AMO says it’s campaign aims to ensure voters understand what provincial support municipalities need to maintain quality of life, while urging all provincial parties to make clear commitments to support Ontario’s 444 municipalities through stronger provincial-municipal partnerships.
AMO launches public awareness campaign in advance of potential provincial election
NZ:
Invercargill mayor Nobby Clark has written a strongly worded letter to the NZ government expressing concerns about recent changes to the Waste Minimisation Act, particularly regarding the lack of transparency and consultation in the decision-making process.
The letter, unanimously supported by councillors, calls for future changes to involve full reviews and open debate.
Mayor Clark is arguing that the government’s focus on fiscal savings has overshadowed the Act’s original environmental intentions.
Western Bay of Plenty District Council chief executive John Holyoake has resigned after serving since 2021.
No reason has been given for the resignation, but Mr Holyoake is expected to remain until an interim replacement can be appointed.