Independent Inspector takes up role

The appointment of Mr Tony Brown as WA’s first Local Government Inspector this year marked a significant milestone in local government reform.

This new position, supported by skilled investigators, compliance specialists, complaints handlers and other staff, will help to strengthen and modernise local government operations and support a culture of good governance and respectful debate.

The Inspector’s five-year appointment commenced on 20 October 2025, enabling recruitment for key inspectorate officer positions before formal duties and new powers take effect on 1 January 2026. 

The Inspector will have powers to investigate and intervene to ensure compliance, focussing on early intervention to identify and resolve issues before they escalate.

This includes establishing a Panel of Monitors, a new function that will allow for earlier resolution of issues, and support for local governments.

An Expression of Interest to join the panel is now open seeking people with suitable expertise in a range of areas. Regular EOI processes are planned to ensure a contemporary pool of refreshed skills and experience.

The independence of the Inspector is a key element of the reforms, with safeguards developed including:

• the role being appointed independently by the Governor
• the Inspector being separate from LGIRS
• limits are placed on Ministerial directions
• the Inspector will also be required to prepare an annual report to be tabled in Parliament.

These safeguards have been developed to ensure the role can function effectively and support a more transparent and accountable local government sector, with councils that function effectively and provide good governance for the benefit of local communities.