New draft Code of Conduct released for consultation

The NSW Government has released a draft new Model Code of Conduct for councillors for public
consultation.

The proposed Code forms part of a broader program of local government governance reforms
designed to strengthen accountability, improve standards of conduct and support public confidence
in local government.

Local councils make decisions that affect communities every day. Councillors are entitled to robust
debate and differing views, but the community is entitled to expect decisions to be made
transparently, respectfully and in the public interest.

The draft Code updates conduct standards to reflect contemporary issues facing councils, including
the use of social media, while providing greater clarity around the obligations expected of
councillors and council officials.

This work sits alongside other reforms being pursued by the Government to improve governance
across the local government sector.

Legislation currently before Parliament would provide a more effective mechanism for dealing with
serious misconduct by councillors through applications to the Land and Environment Court.

The Government has also been progressing reforms to the Model Code of Meeting Practice to
strengthen transparency and support better decision-making processes in councils.

Taken together, these reforms are intended to strengthen integrity, accountability and public
confidence in local government across New South Wales.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“Local government is the level of government closest to the community, and the community is
entitled to expect high standards of conduct from those elected to represent them.”

“This draft Code is an important part of a broader reform program aimed at supporting
transparency, accountability and respectful conduct in councils.”

“Strong conduct standards are important, but they must be supported by effective mechanisms for
dealing with serious misconduct and by transparent decision-making processes.”

“That is why the Government has pursued reforms across all three areas.”

“I encourage councillors, councils and members of the public to review the draft and provide
feedback.”

Have your say

Community members, councils and stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback on the policy
statement and proposed Model Code of Conduct for Councillors by Friday 7 August by 5pm by visiting Councillor Conduct Framework Reform.