A consultation paper has been released as part of an independent review of the state’s councillor misconduct framework, with public feedback now being sought on the document.
The review was commissioned by Minister for Local Government, Shelley Hancock, in June this year to bolster procedures and ensure quick, effective and cost efficient action can be taken against councillors who breach the code of conduct.
“Local communities rightly expect their elected representatives uphold the highest standards of leadership and conduct in carrying out their civic duties,” Mrs Hancock said.
“The Model Code of Conduct in it’s current form does not adequately address all aspects of councillor conduct, and the consultation paper could not be more timely with the upcoming Local Government elections.”
The NSW Government is now calling for community feedback on the comprehensive consultation paper released as part of the review.
Gary Kellar PSM, who was a member of an expert panel which examined the local government misconduct framework in Queensland, is carrying out the independent review.
“The review is examining the effectiveness of penalties available to councils, the Office of Local Government and the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal for councillor misconduct,” Mrs Hancock said.
“It is also looking at the processes for making code of conduct complaints, the way investigations are conducted, the timeliness of disciplinary action, and misconduct frameworks implemented in other jurisdictions.”
The Councillor Conduct Accountability in NSW Local Government consultation paper and further information on how to lodge a submission can be found on the Office of Local Government website. Submissions close on March 28, 2022.
