The Western Australian Government today tabled the report detailing findings of the Authorised Inquiry into the Shire of Perenjori in State Parliament.
The Inquiry commenced following concerns raised by electors and a departmental probity audit conducted in 2017, which identified serious tender and procurement issues.
The issues investigated include the tender processes in relation to the redevelopment of the Perenjori Pavilion, construction of transportable accommodation for shire staff, and construction of independent living units. Through this investigation poor record keeping practices were also identified.
The report includes 30 findings and five recommendations. However, as there is no longer a council a number of those recommendations will be negated.
Ten of the findings involved the Shire of Perenjori's former CEO.
The report also found that five councillors may have breached section 5.65 of the Local Government Act 1995 for not disclosing either a proximity or financial interest to the council on various agenda items.
Perenjori is a small farming and mining local government area in the Mid-West region of Western Australia, about 360 kilometres north of Perth, with a population of about 600 people.
In June 2019, a commissioner was appointed to run the shire after five of its nine councillors resigned, resulting in the need to declare the remaining four positions vacant.
As stated by Local Government Minister David Templeman:
"I welcome the findings of the inquiry into the Shire of Perenjori.
"Local governments have a responsibility to abide by the Local Government Act and its associated regulations.
"Record keeping, the role of the CEO, and tendering processes are all important activities and councils have to be aware of their obligations and responsibilities.
"I believe that the recent appointment of a Commissioner to run the Shire of Perenjori will help restore stability to the local government.
"Following the election in May 2020, incoming councillors will be better prepared to lead their communities thanks to the WA Government's recently introduced changes to the Local Government Act, which include universal training for council members.
"Communities should have confidence in their elected members to provide good governance and services."
