Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne has extended the appointment of municipal monitors at Darebin City Council for a further six months to continue supporting the council to improve its governance practices.
June Anstee and Ross Millard were initially appointed for an 8-month period, from 29 April 2024 to 31 December 2024. Their appointment has now been extended until 30 June 2025.
The interim report notes that while Darebin has made progress in improving its governance structures, work is still required to support the council.
In response to this advice, Minister Horne has extended the appointment of both monitors.
The monitors will work with new and returning councillors to continue to support positive working relationships and guide the new Council through the CEO recruitment process.
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 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 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 have introduced 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 Darebin City Council monitors are available at localgovernment.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne
"I thank Ms Anstee and Mr Millard, for their ongoing work as monitors to Darebin City Council. They will continue to support the council to ensure the council can best represent the local community."
"The new Council term provides the opportunity to support positive relationships between councillors and guide the Council through the CEO recruitment process."
"Municipal monitors have proven to be effective at guiding councils to make improvements in good governance, helping councils better serve their communities."
