Catching Up - Inquiry, Suspension, Appointments and Resignations

The Local Government News Roundup is back, and in this edition we catch up on the major news of the last month.

Including:

• A commission of inquiry for Whittlesea Council as its mayor is suspended
• A Kingston councillor stood down pending legal proceedings
• A raft of CEO resignations and appointments from across the country
• A monitor’s report released, and the cost of a previous commission of inquiry revealed
• A major restructure for a Queensland council
• and a court voids the election of four Adelaide City Councillors

Plus much more news from around the local government sector across Australia.

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas
In depth analysis of what’s happening in Israel—and why it matters everywhere.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Chapters

• 1:59 Victorian Roundup
• 13:34 NSW Roundup
• 15:40 [Ad] Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas
• 16:21 (Cont.) NSW Roundup
• 20:35 National Roundup

Transcript

Victorian Roundup:

A Commission of Inquiry will be held into "serious issues of governance and health and safety concerns" at Whittlesea City Council.

Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos announced the inquiry along with the immediate suspension of Mayor Aidan McLindon for a six month period.

The inquiry will examine matters affecting good governance at the council, and any reforms needed to address them.

The suspension of Mr McLindon follows weeks of instability after he was barred from attending council premises over alleged inappropriate behaviour and health and safety concerns.

Minister Staikos said the suspension is necessary to protect the health and safety of councillors and staff.

While the suspension is in place, Mr McLindon cannot perform the functions of a councillor, attend council meeting.

Mr McLindon confirmed he had been stood down by the Governor in Council, which he called a largely unaccountable and disproportionately powerful committee. He said it was a dark day for democracy.

Cr Martin Taylor has since been elected as the new Mayor of Whittlesea City Council, at an Unscheduled Council Meeting on Thursday, April 24.

Cr Taylor will serve until November 18, 2025. Deputy Mayor Daniela Zinni will continue in her current role alongside the newly elected Mayor.

Cr Taylor, who represents the South Morang ward, has emphasised his commitment to unity and community service in his new role.

Kingston Councillor Jane Agirtan has been stood down from her role as a councillor under section 229 of the Local Government Act.

In a statement, CEO Peter Bean said Councillor Agirtan must not perform the functions and duties of, or exercise the powers of a councillor, including attending council meetings, delegated committee meetings or attending council premises, until the conclusion of the court proceedings.

Under the Act, Cr Agirtan is stood down until the outcome of the court proceedings is finalised and next steps can be determined.

More from the Herald Sun$

Bayside News reported that Cr Agirtan appeared in court on 7th April, charged with breaching a personal safety intervention order, and is due to face court in June.

Carol Jeffs, the CEO of Cardinia Shire Council, has announced her resignation after nearly seven years at the helm.

Ms. Jeffs will step down from her position on June 4th to take up a new role as CEO of Uniting Vic Tas, one of the largest community service organisations in Victoria and Tasmania.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Jack Kowarzik praised Ms Jeff’s’ leadership, describing her legacy as leaving 'extremely big shoes to fill.'

The council is now considering interim arrangements while they begin the recruitment process for a new CEO.

Hobsons Bay City Council CEO Aaron Van Egmond has resigned and left the organisation.

In a very brief statement, the council said he had moved interstate for family reasons.

Mr Van Egmond and some other senior members of staff were suspended pending investigations into unspecified workplace issues since January.

Former Wyndham Council and MAV CEO Kerry Thompson is currently serving as the council’s acting CEO.

Anne Howard has been appointed as the new CEO of Darebin City Council, and has resigned her current role as CEO of Colac Otway Shire.

Mayor Kristine Olaris OAM announced the appointment last week, highlighting the experience that Ms Howard will bring to the role.

Michael Tudball will continue serving as Interim CEO until Ms Howard’s commencement in July.

Mitchell Shire Council announced the appointment of Mary Agostino as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Ms. Agostino has been serving as Interim CEO since December 2024.

With an impressive track record in senior executive roles since 2017 and recognition as one of the LGIU 25 Thinkers in Local Government worldwide, Ms. Agostino will formally commence her role as Chief Executive Officer this month.

Benalla Rural City Council has appointed Peter Keane as its new Chief Executive Officer, following a competitive selection process that drew more than 50 applicants.

Mr Keane is a mechanical engineer, and brings substantial experience from his roles in Queensland and Western Australia.

His most recent position was with the Council of Mayors South East Queensland, where he served as Director of Waste Portfolio Management Office.

The new CEO will commence his four-year term on May 1st, 2025.

Horsham Rural City Council has appointed Gail Gatt as its new Chief Executive Officer, following a competitive recruitment process.

Ms Gatt brings extensive local government experience from her current role at Surf Coast Shire and previous positions at Wellington Shire and Latrobe City Council.

She will commence her role on May 19.

Baw Baw Shire Council has appointed Mr. John Bennie as Interim Chief Executive Officer.

The appointment coincides with the launch of recruitment efforts for a permanent CEO.

Mr. Bennie, former CEO of the Greater City of Dandenong.

He succeeds Cohen Van der Velde, who served as Interim CEO in recent months, after the departure of long time CEO Mark Dupe late last year.

Local Government Minister Nick Staikos has received the final monitor’s report on Colac Otway Shire Council.

Municipal monitor Christine Ferguson, who served from July 2024 to January 2025, has delivered a comprehensive assessment of the council's operations.

The report outlines several recommendations aimed at enhancing the council's governance practices.

Notably, the monitor expressed optimism about the new councillors' willingness to accept guidance, suggesting that further intervention may not be necessary if the recommended improvements are implemented.

The full report detailing the findings and recommendations has been made publicly available through the Local Government Victoria website.

Per the Cobram Courier: the cost of a Commission of Inquiry into governance failings at Moira Shire Council that led to the appointment of administrators until 2028 has been revealed.

Over $921,894 in inquiry costs were incurred by the council, with a further $760k spent on asbestos remediation.

Susan Benedyka has been appointed as a new Administrator to join Moira Shire Council's Panel of Administrators alongside Chair Administrator Dr Graeme Emonson PSM.

With extensive experience across various councils, boards, and advisory bodies in rural and regional areas, Ms Benedyka brings valuable expertise in community-centred decision making, leadership development, and strategic planning to the role.

She replaces Suzanna Sheed on the panel, after she stepped down from the position in January.

The Panel of Administrators will serve until October 2028.

Hepburn Shire Council has taken a strong stance against what it describes as escalating hostile behaviour on social media and through email communications.

Mayor Don Henderson has condemned the increasing incidents of offensive and threatening language directed at Council staff and officers, announcing that such incidents will now be referred to police and relevant authorities.

The Council emphasizes that while they welcome constructive feedback and healthy debate from residents, personal attacks and intimidating behaviour will not be tolerated.

The escalation in behaviour follows the leaking online of an unofficial local government inspectorate report into issues surrounding the purchase and sale of the Rex Theatre in Daylesford, which resulted in significant financial losses for the council.

Hobsons Bay Mayor Daria Kellander has called for the release of a Local Government Inspectorate report into Hepburn Shire Council's governance issues, which was leaked on social media but never officially published.

The Mayor argues that the report's release is crucial for transparency and could have helped prevent current issues in Hobsons Bay, while also seeking clarification on why it wasn't published in 2022.

Northern Grampians Shire Council said is investigating an incident where three dogs (two Rottweilers and a German Shepherd) attacked a family cat in Stawell, with the dogs being seized and taken to the local pound.

The Council called for witnesses to come forward and emphasises the importance of registering pets, noting that only one of the involved dogs was registered, complicating their investigation and management of such incidents.

A Victorian ALP policy committee has recommended loosening and eventually removing the cap on council rate increases, arguing that councils cannot adequately fund community services under the current system.

Local Government Minister Nick Staikos said there are no plans to change the "fair go rates" system, highlighting that the average rate cap of 2.3% since its introduction has helped save money for Victorian households.

Per Herald Sun

Maribyrnong City Council urged the Victorian government to install filtration systems in the West Gate Tunnel's ventilation stacks, citing concerns over toxic fumes affecting the health of residents in Melbourne's inner west.

The council's push comes amid existing high rates of air pollution-related illnesses in the area and follows community protests.

The government previously determined filters weren't necessary in the original design, suggesting they could be retrofitted if needed in the future. Per Herald Sun

Greater Dandenong councillor and federal election candidate Rhonda Garad has filed a WorkSafe complaint against Greater Dandenong Council, alleging systemic bullying and public humiliation.

The conflict centres around Cr Garad's council leave and allowance during her election campaign. Per Star Journal

Per ABC News, The mayor of Latrobe City Council, Dale Harriman, will personally fund a $9,500 European trip to accompany the Traralgon City Band and potentially meet Queen Mary of Denmark, following backlash over the initial plan to use ratepayer funds.

The council voted to allow the mayor's ceremonial chains valued at $50,000 to be taken on the trip, with hopes remaining for a potential future visit from the Australian-born Danish Queen.

Victorian Briefs:

Greater Dandenong City Council voted down a proposed motion to explore having mayors and deputy mayors directly elected by the public, rather than by councillors, per Dandenong Star Journal.

Ballarat City Council reported that the Eureka Flag, a significant historical artifact from the 1854 Eureka Stockade in Ballarat, remains in stable condition after 170 years according to a recent conservation assessment conducted in March 2025.

The flag, which is housed at the Eureka Centre and attracts thousands of visitors monthly, undergoes annual inspections to ensure its preservation for future generations while serving as a powerful symbol of Australian democracy.

Advocacy group Rural Councils Victoria welcomed a delay to the state government’s Emergency Services Volunteer Fund Levy.

The proposal has been strongly opposed by many councils and farmers, and reportedly has failed to attract the required support to pass the upper house.

Following a complaint about an illegal rooming house in Ashwood, two operators were found guilty of multiple violations including operating without registration and overcrowding, resulting in convictions and fines totaling over $11,700.

Monash Council emphasised its commitment to protecting vulnerable residents by ensuring rooming house operators comply with regulations that maintain reasonable living standards and prevent exploitation.

National Roundup:

The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) welcomed the Coalition's commitment to reinstate the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program at $1 billion per year if elected, which previously helped councils build and maintain vital community facilities and infrastructure.

ALGA is currently advocating for $3.5 billion in formula-based funding across five key areas including housing infrastructure, community facilities, road safety, emergency management, and climate adaptation.

NSW:

Jason Breton has been appointed as Liverpool City Council's CEO following a unanimous council vote.

Mr Breton grew up in Liverpool's tough neighborhoods and rose through the ranks of NSW Police to Detective Chief Inspector before transitioning to the private sector,

His appointment follows a successful 12-month tenure as Acting CEO and comes as the council faces significant challenges.

The council experienced an unprecedented spike in code of conduct complaints reaching 67 since September - a dramatic increase from just 5 complaints in the previous year.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, processing costs to deal with the complaints have been estimated at $346,386.

It reported that the situation is largely driven by ongoing tensions between Mayor Ned Mannoun and Councillor Peter Ristevski.

The matter is expected to come under further scrutiny during upcoming public inquiry hearings scheduled for June.

Liverpool Plains Shire Council has appointed Cian Middleton, a qualified legal and business professional with prior experience at the council, as its new General Manager.

Mayor Ken Cudmore highlighted Middleton's vision for improving council performance, financial sustainability, and developing the visitor economy, noting he received unanimous support from councillors.

Mr Middleton most recently served as Deputy General Manager at Narrandera Shire Council.

Narrabri Shire Council has appointed Eloise Chaplain as its new General Manager following her successful tenure as Interim General Manager since August 2024 and previous role as Director Infrastructure Delivery.

Ms Chaplain brings a strong background in engineering and finance, with over eight years in the mining sector and academic qualifications from the University of Queensland and University of New England.

As a local resident operating a farming enterprise near Wee Waa with her family, Ms Chaplain's appointment has been warmly welcomed by Mayor Darrell Tiemens who praised her professionalism and integrity while expressing confidence in her ability to lead the organisation forward.

Andrew Meddle has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Kempsey Shire Council, bringing extensive experience from both UK and Australian government roles, including expertise in urban planning, transport, and environmental management.

The former Essex native, who moved to Australia in 2012, will commence his new role on June 2, transitioning from his current position as General Manager for the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board.

Lismore City Council General Manager Jon Gibbons resigned due to family reasons, with Mayor Steve Krieg thanking him for his dedicated service and leadership during the city's recovery period.

Gibbons, who began his five-year agreement in February 2023, was the council’s sixth GM in six years.

The council has appointed Eber Butron as acting General Manager for up to twelve months.

Mr Butron, who previously served as Chief Corporate and Community Officer and Deputy General Manager, begins his new role on May 3.

MidCoast Council Councillor Dheera Smith has announced her retirement due to serious health concerns.

Councillor Smith, who was re-elected just seven months ago, has been recognised as a passionate advocate for environmental and social issues during her tenure since 2021.

Mayor Claire Pontin praised Councillor Smith's service, highlighting her "unwavering dedication, passion, and integrity" in representing the community.

The NSW Electoral Commission will conduct a countback of votes from last September's election to determine her replacement.

Councillor Michael Crye has relinquished his position on Oberon Council due to unforeseen circumstances, with the vacant position to be filled through a Countback Election method conducted by the NSW Electoral Commission.

Lithgow City Council Mayor Cass Coleman issued a strong defence of council staff following increased public scrutiny during the federal election campaign.

The statement came as several candidates promise to restore funding for the city's Main Street renovation project.

Mayor Coleman highlighted the council's recent achievements, including the completion of $16.6 million in capital works within six months, while emphasising that council employees are integral members of the local community.

The Mayor, alongside Deputy Mayor Steve Ring, expressed full support for the General Manager's ongoing system improvements, pushing back against negative social media commentary questioning the council's competency.

Leeton Shire Council engaged Professor Joseph Drew from the University of Newcastle to conduct an independent and comprehensive review of its financial position.

If the review indicates financial viability concerns, a second stage would involve community consultation and potentially an application for a special rate variation through IPART.

Professor Drew, a distinguished expert in local government finance, will work with his colleagues to prepare a comprehensive report to be presented at the June Ordinary Council Meeting.

Cumberland City Council voted to remove all 50 "Racism Not Welcome" signs across the local government area, though Mayor Ola Hamed opposed the decision while reaffirming the Council's ongoing commitment to combating racism.

Eurobodalla Council voted to exit its disability services, aged care packages, and seniors respite services by October, affecting around 148 clients and 75 staff members.

While services will continue as normal for now, the transition is subject to confirmation that other providers can support clients, with a staff consultation and detailed plans to be developed before any changes occur.

The NSW Audit Office's 2024 Local Government report revealed mixed financial performance across councils, with 88% meeting statutory reporting deadlines but 40% failing to break even and 35 councils meeting minimal financial sustainability benchmarks.

While most councils received unqualified audit opinions, concerns persist around cyber security controls and financial sustainability, leading to recommendations for reduced reporting burden and improved financial processes.

QLD:

Sunshine Coast Council's CEO John Baker initiated a restructure that will reduce the number of executive groups from six to five, requiring current group executives to reapply for their positions, according to Sunshine Coast News.

The restructure, unanimously approved by councillors, aims to enhance financial sustainability and improve organisational responsiveness to community needs, with the transition expected to continue throughout this year.

Noosa Council CEO Larry Sengstock last month called for community patience as some council services continued to be impacted by protected industrial action.

His plea came after negotiations stalled on a new certified agreement for council staff.

He said delays in responding to some customer requests were likely as the action continued.

Conciliatory meetings before the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission have commenced, and further talks are scheduled for 7 May.

The City of Moreton Bay defended its enforcement of local laws prohibiting camping on public land at Eddie Hyland Park, where 12 rough sleepers were issued compliance notices and offered referrals to homelessness services and the Department of Housing and Public Works.

The council maintained that public spaces are not suitable for habitation and is working with Federal and State governments to advocate for better accommodation solutions, including overnight shelters.

A summary of audit results for Queensland’s 77 councils released by the Queensland Audit Office found that 64 had completed their financial statements by the statutory deadline, with more than two-thirds doing so in the last two weeks of October or missing the deadline entirely.

The Audit Office said it continued to find more weaknesses in information systems, and a deterioration in the sector’s control environment.

TAS:

**Per Pulse Tasmania, Launceston** councillors have passed a vote of no confidence in Mayor Matthew Garwood following controversy over his social media post with American singer Ronnie Radke.

The motion passed five votes to three.

While Cr Garwood took responsibility for the incident and its negative impact on the council, the no-confidence vote is only a political statement and he will remain Mayor unless he chooses to step down.

SA:

Per ABC News, Four Adelaide City councillors have been removed from their positions after a judge declared the 2022 Central Ward election result void due to illegal practices.

The ruling came after an investigation into unauthorised collection of ballot papers from apartment buildings.

The decision affects all four elected members of the Central Ward, including Jing Li, who won the contested seat by just 24 votes.

The Electoral Commission of South Australia will now conduct a supplementary election, expected to take approximately three months after the electoral roll closes on May 30th.

While former councillor Alex Hyde, who initiated the legal challenge, has indicated he won't contest the new election, some affected councillors, including Deputy Lord Mayor David Elliott and Carmel Noon, have announced their intention to run again.

Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith said that regular council meetings will continue with the remaining seven elected members.

Per The Advertiser: Mitcham councillor Darren Kruse has been found by SA Ombudsman Emily Strickland to have committed misconduct by remaining in a council meeting where his own behavioural breaches were being discussed.

The misconduct stemmed from two previous incidents in 2023 where Kruse had interactions with ratepayers - one involving a refusal to stand for an Acknowledgement of Country, and another regarding his response to a childhood photo found online.

Following the Ombudsman's investigation, Kruse was required to make a public apology, receive a reprimand, and attend training as consequences for failing to declare a material conflict of interest during the meeting.

Mount Gambier Councillor Kate Amoroso resigned with immediate effect. Ms Amoroso was elected to Council in November 2018 and served for six and half years.

The Council said it will not be required to fill the casual vacancy the resignation creates.

WA:

James Trail, CEO of the Shire of Coolgardie submitted his resignation, which was formally acknowledged at a Special Council Meeting on April 22.

Aaron Cook will continue as Acting CEO while the Council considers its position.

Shire President Malcolm Cullen said the outcome is a turning point and an opportunity to focus on the Shire's recovery plan.

Mr Trail was suspended from his position in November while an independent investigation was conducted into allegations of workplace culture issues, according to ABC News.

Lisa Clack has been appointed as the first female CEO of the Town of Cambridge, bringing over 25 years of experience across Local and State Government, including her recent role as the Town's Director Corporate and Commercial Services.

The appointment was announced after a Council decision on April 15, and Ms Clack commences new role this week.

NT:

West Arnhem Regional Council has appointed Katharine Clare Murray as its new CEO, bringing her extensive experience in Indigenous leadership to the role starting this week.

Ms Murray aims to focus on community-led outcomes, economic sustainability, and building strong partnerships while replacing Andrew Walsh, whose tenure strengthened community connections. Per NT News

Palmerston City Councillor Danielle Eveleigh resigned, effective April 12. The Council is considering options to fill the vacancy ahead of the August 2025 Local Government elections.

The resignation follows a dispute over her media appearances discussing a constituent’s assault case, citing feelings of being restricted in her ability to speak freely about community issues.

The council has confirmed her media comments were not in breach of its media policy. Per NT News