Intro
Problems, disputes and dysfunction within local government impacts upon ratepayers, local businesses, and local government services.
Complaints relating to local governments should be resolved quickly to reduce the risk of damage that may be done when there are serious problems in how a local government is functioning.
Local government oversight needs to be focused on targeting and fixing significant problems and stopping misconduct.
A new oversight Inspector for local government will be appointed to handle complaints, manage investigations, and coordinate the proactive resolution of significant problems identified within local governments. The Inspector will have the authority to receive complaints about local government CEOs.
Specialist independent Monitors appointed by the Inspector will visit and work with local governments to fix problems, to provide for faster resolution where problems are identified.
Stronger penalties for breaches by council members will be imposed by a new Conduct Panel.
Elected members who do not complete mandatory training within a specified time frame may be liable for penalties.
Meeting procedure regulations will empower the Mayor and President to manage meetings, including procedures to deal with disruptive parties. This reform will also be supported by mandatory audio or video recording of council meetings.
Other amendments may further strengthen oversight of local government. Early intervention and oversight reforms will also be supported by the other reforms, especially new transparency and democratic decision-making reforms.
To provide your feedback on these reforms, please email your comments to actreview@dlgsc.wa.gov.au by 4 February 2022.