Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne has extended the appointment of two municipal monitors at Brimbank City Council to improve its governance practices.
Monitors Janet Dore and Penelope Holloway have had their terms extended to 30 June 2025 in response to their interim report which details ongoing risks associated with councillor conduct.
The interim report notes that while the Council has made progress in improving its governance structures, there is a need for the newly elected councillors to develop a stronger understanding of good governance and their statutory roles to prevent negative behaviours and conflict.
In response to this advice, Minister Horne has extended the appointment of both monitors. Municipal monitors are appointed to councils to advise on necessary governance improvements and report back to the Minister, under section 179 of the Local Government Act 2020.
The Allan Labor Government has passed reforms to the Local Government Act 2020 to improve culture, governance and integrity standards in Victoria's councils.
The reforms introduce mandatory training for elected representatives, a uniform councillor code of conduct and strengthened powers for the Minister to address councillor conduct.
The terms of reference for the monitors direct them to advise and provide any relevant assistance and support to the council in relation to the improvement of its governance processes and practices.
The terms of reference for the Brimbank City Council monitors are available at localgovernment.vic.gov.au/council-governance.
As stated by Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne
"I thank Ms Dore and Ms Holloway for their ongoing work as monitors to Brimbank City Council. They will continue to support the newly elected council following the council elections in October."
"Municipal monitors have proven to be effective at guiding councils to make governance improvements that help them better serve their communities."
