The City of Casey is strongly supportive of reforms to address the lobbying risks that were identified as part of Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission's (IBAC) Operation Sandon Special Report.
Council has submitted a response to the Victorian Governments Supporting Transparency and Integrity in Lobbying consultation paper, suggesting that a uniform approach in combating undue influence and maintaining ethical governance would be welcomed by Councillors and the organisation.
City of Casey Mayor, Cr Stefan Koomen, said that he welcomed the State Government's engagement on lobbying regulation.
"Any steps taken to improve transparency and integrity at all levels of government is a good thing," Cr Koomen said.
The paper, which proposes improvements to increase accountability and public trust in the legislative process, is part of the public consultation process launched by the State Government in January 2025.
Casey's submission responded to a series of questions on councillor compliance with restrictions, whether all lobbying directed at councillors should be reportable, and who should be required to disclose lobbying activity.
Casey's response emphasises that all lobbying activity directed at local government Councillors should be reportable.
"Full disclosure would enable greater transparency and allow the public to scrutinise interactions that could influence decision-making," Cr Koomen said
"However, if a full disclosure is seen as too much, at the very least, any lobbying that involves money or tries to affect policy decisions and planning should be reported.
"The new Casey Council group are committed to re-building trust with our community, and transparency plays a huge part in this. Since being elected, and coming to understand what was involved in the behaviour of the former Councillors in the lead up to Operation Sandon investigation - I want to ensure that something like this never happens again."
