Media Releases

Shelley Hancock – Minister for Local Government

Friday, 26 November 2021

Its time to have your say on councillor misconduct procedures as part of a comprehensive independent review into the framework governing behaviour of our elected community representatives.

Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock commissioned the review of the councillor misconduct framework in June 2021 to bolster procedures and ensure quick, effective and cost efficient action can be taken against councillors who breach the code of conduct.

A comprehensive consultation paper has now been released as part of the independent review and the NSW Government is calling for community feedback.

“Local communities rightly expect their elected representatives uphold the highest standards of leadership and conduct in carrying out their civic duties,” Mrs Hancock said.

“The Model Code of Conduct in its current form does not adequately address all aspects of councillor conduct, and the consultation paper could not be more timely with the upcoming Local Government elections.”

Gary Kellar PSM, who was a member of an expert panel which examined the local government misconduct framework in Queensland, is carrying out the independent review.

“The review is examining the effectiveness of penalties available to councils, the Office of Local Government and the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal for councillor misconduct,” Mrs Hancock said.

“It is also looking at the processes for making code of conduct complaints, the way investigations are conducted, the timeliness of disciplinary action, and misconduct frameworks implemented in other jurisdictions.”

The Councillor Conduct Accountability in NSW Local Government consultation paper and further information on how to lodge a submission can be found on the Office of Local Government website. Submissions close on March 28, 2022.

MEDIA: Damien Bolte | 0498 359 624