Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne has announced the appointment of Ms Prue Digby and Mr Peter Dorling as municipal monitors to guide the recruitment of a new Chief Executive Officer at the City of Greater Geelong.
The decision to appoint municipal monitors for 12 months was announced last month following advice from both Local Government Victoria and the Chief Municipal Inspector (CMI).
The Chief Municipal Inspector recommended the Minister exercise her powers under the Local Government Act 2020 in relation to the employment of a CEO.
The CMI has been investigating the City of Greater Geelong and its CEO appointment process.
This investigation has focused on integrity and transparency, and is ongoing.
Ms Digby and Mr Dorling bring considerable experience in state and local government. Mr Dorling has previously been appointed as administrator at City of Greater Geelong between 2016-18 and municipal monitor in 2019. Ms Digby was appointed as a municipal monitor to the South Gippsland Shire Council between 2021 and 2022.
During their appointment, the monitors will support the City of Greater Geelong's transition back to good governance and guide it through the recruitment of a new Chief Executive Officer.
The Andrews Labor Government is supporting and improving council culture throughout the state in accordance with the Local Government Act 2020.
As stated by Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne
"Both Prue Digby and Peter Dorling have extensive experience, skills and knowledge to effectively guide the City of Greater Geelong to refocus on its community."
"Residents of Greater Geelong deserve a council that represents their needs. As the level of government closest to the people, councils play a vital role in communities across the state and it's imperative they have a positive and inclusive culture."
