GROWING numbers of complaints about councils and their councillors
have prompted the “first-ever comprehensive review’’ of local
government in Victoria.
The review follows hot on the heels of an investigation into councillor conduct and governance matters.
Local Government Minister Jeanette Powell said average voter
participation at elections last year had dropped, while the number of
complaints about councils had risen.
“I have received a report from the Victorian Electoral Commission
about their findings on the electoral process and have sought advice
from the Local Government Inspectorate regarding the complaints made at
last year’s elections.”
She said the review would seek to improve electoral processes. It might also lead to legislative changes.
After the council elections last October, the inspectorate
received 530 complaints and conducted 428 investigations. The panel will
issue a discussion paper and seek feedback before the year’s end.
Details: localgovernment.vic.gov.au
