Local Government NSW (LGNSW) has welcomed the release of the Councillor Conduct Framework Discussion Paper, which was announced by Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig earlier today with an extended period for comment.
LGNSW President Darriea Turley AM said the local government sector had been anticipating the release of the framework and supported any move that would ensure the highest standards of integrity and probity across all levels of government.
"This issue has been the subject of long conversation for councils and the eventual framework will be a key cornerstone in maintaining integrity, transparency and trust in local government across the State and this next step in the consultation process is very much welcomed by the sector," Cr Turley said.
"The Discussion Paper has a range of aspects to it and we look forward to working with councils to hear their feedback and then liaising with the Minister and the Government to ensure we get a final framework that works for everyone.
"Ultimately, we want to see a framework that allows councils to carry out their functions efficiently and appropriately, will provide clear expectations to elected officials and confidence for the community at large."
While there are some aspects that will need to be approached with caution and the provision of more detail, Cr Turley highlighted some potential improvements included in the proposed framework.
"As financial sustainability of councils becomes an increasing concern for all of us, it's good to see that this framework may lead to a reduction in costs to councils by way of removing the contentious role for private investigators," Cr Turley said.
"Instead, complaints about conflicts of interest would be made directly to the Office of Local Government (OLG) and complaints about misbehaviour would be made directly to a Local Government Privileges Committee.
"Further, the proposed framework would give mayors greater powers to sanction councillors for acts of disorder during meetings, but significant sanctions (such as suspension, financial penalties or disqualification) will only be made by an appropriate tribunal (such as NCAT).
"This is a vast improvement to the current arrangements, where such penalties are made by a NSW Government official, often a substantial period of time after the event.
"I know this is a busy time for local government as we face council elections on Saturday 14 September, but I encourage all councils to look closely at the discussion paper and put forward a submission by the deadline of 15 November."
A copy of the Councillor Conduct Framework Discussion Paper and more details on the consultation process can be found on the Office of Local Government Website.
