Procedural vandalism, toxic dysfunction, and a costly decision

In this edition of the Local Government News Roundup:

• The Victorian Government releases its response to an inquiry into local government funding
• Two new members elected to the VLGA board
• Above average satisfaction for two western Victorian councils
• An acting mayor accuses colleagues of procedural vandalism
• A pay dispute in Townsville gets nasty
• A councillor’s call for complainants to pay costs of unsuccessful actions
• and a report exposes a dysfunctional and psychologically unsafe council

Plus Chris speaks with Clinton Jury from LGA South Australia, after his surprise announcement last week that he’s moving on from the association he has led as CEO for the past four years.

Learn more about SmartGlue at www.symphony3.com

On Tuesday, 22 July the VLGA and LGIU will host the next in its series of Global Executive Live Panels for 2025.

This webinar will explore the topic of Building the Local Economy and will be held online from 5.30pm to 7pm.

Panellists include:

• Dr Angela Jackson, Commissioner (Social Policy), Australian Productivity Commission
• David Marlow, Chief Executive, Third Life Economics 
• Merryn Tinkler, Manager Economy & Culture, Mount

Chapters

• 1:53 Victorian Report
• 8:44 NSW Report
• 14:02 National Report
• 21:18 Global Report
• 24:30 Interview: Clinton Jury, CEO LGA SA

Transcript

Victorian Roundup:

The Victorian Government has released it’s official response to a Parliamentary Committee Inquiry into local government funding and services, which made 48 recommendations.

The response reveals a mixed approach to addressing financial sustainability challenges faced by local councils. While some recommendations have received full or partial support, several key proposals have been rejected.

Notably, the latter includes the recommendation for the provision of adequate capital expenditure funding. The government maintains that local councils should be responsible for managing their own assets and considers borrowing as a viable option for infrastructure funding.

The government also does not support a review of the ratings system, noting a previous review was conducted in 2019.

It has however shown support for several initiatives aimed at improving financial management. These include reviewing rate cap application requirements, establishing a local government sustainability framework, and supporting councils through programs like the Regional Planning Hub.

The government has given in-principle support to the recommendation that it not delay funding for projects under the Growth Areas Infrastructure Contributions (GAIC) program.

Full support is given to the recommendation that Free Kinder be 100% funded, while there is part support for a co-design process to ensure legislative impacts on local government are considered.

On the whole, the government’s response indicates a preference for maintaining existing structures while supporting process improvements. It backs simplifying grant applications and providing additional support for smaller councils, though many of these commitments are qualified as "in principle" support rather than firm commitments.

The response also reflects a clear stance on maintaining current funding arrangements for key services, with the government declining to restore historical funding splits for services like public libraries and maternal and child health services.

With regard to councillor allowances, the government has given in principle support to a review, and says it will develop resources and support to complement the work of the MAV and the VLGA with regard to councillor training and professional development.

Overall, the government’s position seems to be more of a continued emphasis on local government fiscal responsibility rather than any meaningful increase in state support for the sector.

Read the full report here

The VLGA has announced the results of its 2025 board elections.

Glen Eira Councillor Jane Karslake and Wyndham City Mayor Cr Mia Shaw have been elected to serve three-year terms beginning July 1, 2025.

VLGA CEO Kathryn Arndt has also acknowledged outgoing President Grace La Vella's significant contributions as her term concludes on June 30, 2025.

Two western Victorian councils have announced above average performance in the latest community satisfaction survey results.

West Wimmera Shire Council said its performance index score of 60 was six points higher than the small rural council average, and seven points up on the statewide average.

It marks the fifth consecutive year of overall performance above 58 points, with its customer service the strongest performing core area.

And Ararat Rural City Council says its performance has scored above the state wide average across every performance measure.

CEO Dr Tim Harrison said the encouraging results confirm the council is on the right track.

The Victorian Government has approved a new development plan for Shepparton's southeast that will create a new suburb with over 2,900 new homes and more than 7,000 future residents.

The precinct, developed in partnership with Greater Shepparton City Council, is expected to create 275 local jobs.

The government says the decision is part of its broader strategy to deliver more homes in growing regional communities while protecting farmland and maintaining regional character.

Campaspe Shire Council has endorsed a Zero Tolerance Policy aimed at creating a safe and respectful environment for all Council employees, contractors, volunteers, and Councillors.

The policy establishes clear standards for acceptable behaviour from community members and visitors, and sets out steps to be taken when responding to unreasonable or unacceptable behaviour.

Mayor Cr Daniel Mackrell said the policy has been developed as part of Council’s commitment and obligation to the safety of its people

Bass Coast Shire Council has decided to continue fireworks displays for Christmas and New Year's celebrations for another three years, following a comprehensive three-year review that gathered feedback from over 2,300 people.

While alternative options like laser displays and drone shows were considered, traditional fireworks will continue due to strong community support (76% from local residents) and the practical challenges of alternatives, despite some concerns about environmental impact.

The City of Ballarat has proposed new permanent regulations for Lake Wendouree, to prevent safety incidents like people getting stuck in mud, according to the Ballarat News.

The changes include a five-knot speed limit for motorised boats and restrictions based on water levels.

The rules also formalise rowing course usage times and require other boats to give way during certain periods.

They’ve been open for public consultation for the past four weeks.

Victorian Briefs:

Former Greater Bendigo Mayor Margaret O’Rourke has been appointed the new Chair of the Regional Development Advisory Committee.

Ms O’Rourke will work alongside nine Regional Partnership Chairs to drive economic growth and represent regional voices across Victoria.

Swan Hill Rural City Council is conducting a municipal-wide speed zone review and seeking community feedback on proposed safety changes across multiple areas, with submissions closing July 7, 2025.

The TAC Local Government Grant Program has opened, and councils are invited to apply with projects to improve road safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

Funding options range from $30,000 to $100,000 for initiatives including infrastructure, analysis, strategy development, and variable message signs.

National Roundup:

NSW:

Bathurst Regional Council’s Acting Mayor Ben Fry has called an extraordinary meeting to address a rescission motion filed by three councillors, who are attempting to overturn a recent decision to establish a $10 million internal-loan facility from the Sewer Fund to the General Fund.

Cr Fry says the rescission motion is an act of procedural vandalism rather than legitimate oversight, as no new material information has emerged since the original decision.

The internal-loan facility, recommended by the Office of Local Government and compliant with relevant legislation, is intended as a contingency measure to provide a cost-free safety margin while the Council addresses its structural deficit.

The extraordinary meeting will be held at 8.00am this Tuesday.

City of Ryde Mayor Trenton Brown has strongly condemned a recent decision to rezone the historic TG Millner Fields for residential development.

The Sydney North Planning Panel has given the green light for a proposal to build 132 townhouses on the 6.2-hectare site in Marsfield, despite rejecting a similar plan just two and a half years ago.

Mayor Brown has called the decision "catastrophic" and is urging NSW Planning Minister Paul Scully to intervene. Speaking on Radio 2GB, the Mayor highlighted Council's readiness to acquire the site for much-needed community open space.

With projections showing a deficit of up to 21 sports fields by 2040, and plans for 37,000 new homes in the area, Mayor Brown argues that the decision severely impacts the community's future recreational needs.

More than 80 caravan owners are preparing to face off against Clarence Valley Council in court today.

The Daily Telegraph reported that council attempts to evict long-term residents from caravan parks in Iluka, Brooms Head, Minnie Water and Wooli are at the heart of the dispute.

Despite a council vote in April to issue new 12-month tenancy agreements, residents claim they're still in the dark about their fate, with a June 30th eviction deadline looming.

The matter will be heard at the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal, where residents will seek orders to withdraw the termination notices and possible compensation.

Liverpool Plains Shire Council is seeking expressions of interest to lease or purchase Quirindi's historic Royal Theatre, a heritage-listed venue that has served as the town's cultural hub since 1930.

Despite winning heritage awards after its 2010 reopening, changing audience habits and maintenance costs have prompted the council to explore new ownership options.

The Northern Daily Leader reported that the council is open to community feedback before making any decisions at their July meeting.

Four regional councils in northwestern NSW are trialing two Kia EV5 electric SUVs for three weeks each to test their viability in rural areas.

Coonamble Shire is the first to participate in the $15,000 state-funded initiative as part of investigations by the Far North West Joint Organisation of Councils.

After three weeks, the vehicles will move on to Walgett, Bourke and Cobar Shire Councils.

The trial is looking at the vehicles' claimed 550km range and potential cost savings while helping regional councils work towards net zero emissions goals.

NSW Briefs:

Griffith Council has voted to withdraw $400,000 in funding for a cremator due to budget constraints and a significant deficit.

It was intended that the cremator would be leased to Griffith Regional Funeral Services.

Region Riverina reported that the decision comes as another business is establishing a privately funded crematorium in the town, which is set to offer cremations at around a third of the cost of traditional burials.

MidCoast Mayor Claire Pontin will meet with Federal Minister for Emergency Manager Kristy McBain this week as she pursues Category D funding support for the MidCoast Council region.

The Council is compiling detailed damage assessments from businesses, primary producers, and public infrastructure to strengthen their case for increased funding.

Maitland City Council is gathering detailed community feedback through targeted surveys to understand the impacts of the recent floods and build a stronger case for disaster recovery support.

There are separate surveys for businesses, households, and NGOs, with participants eligible to win emergency preparedness kits while helping create a model for future disaster response.

The ALGA's 31st National General Assembly in Canberra is set to welcome a record 1,300 local government leaders this week.

A program of high-profile speakers and sessions on regional development, technology, and governance are lined up across the week, kicking off yesterday with a Regional Cooperation and Development Forum.

President Matt Burnett is encouraging attendees to stay for a Ministerial Engagement Forum on Friday with Federal Ministers and Shadow Ministers in attendance.

QLD:

Brisbane City Council has responded to a disturbing assault on one of their bus drivers at South Bank on Friday, implementing comprehensive safety measures and offering support to the affected driver.

Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Andrew Wines told the Courier Mail that even a single assault on a bus driver is unacceptable, and the council has equipped all buses with CCTV, emergency buttons, anti-shatter windows, and driver safety barriers.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner condemned the attack on social media, describing it as "deeply disturbing," saying that such behaviour has no place in Brisbane.

The incident, along with a separate knife-related occurrence on the bus network, is currently under police investigation.

A pay dispute in Townsville has erupted between the city council and the AWU, as the union targets the council’s CEOand his salary while calling for a better deal for workers.

Council CEO Joe McCabe has defended the council's wage offer, which includes increases of up to 14.61% for trades staff in the first year.

The total package, worth $21.78 million over three years, also offers field staff a 7.66% rise, with all workers receiving additional 3% increases in years two and three.

The Australian Workers' Union has initiated industrial action, pushing for a 20% pay rise and calling for funds to be redirected from senior executive salaries to frontline workers.

The council maintains its offer is both fair and financially sustainable.

Banana Shire Mayor Nev Ferrier has condemned the “disgraceful” and illegal dumping of up 200 truck tyres in Queensland's Isla Gorge National Park, discovered during a bushfire last October.

Local authorities are conducting a joint investigation and have to bring in a specialist contractor with a 130-tonne crane to remove the tyres.

TAS:

A Burnie City councillor has proposed reforms to make complainants pay for the costs of dismissed code of conduct complaints instead of ratepayers.

The call comes after a complaint against Cr Amina Keygan was found to be without merit.

The Advocate reported that councils across Tasmania are spending significant amounts of ratepayer money on complaint investigations, with Burnie City Council alone spending over $11,000 in the past two years on such matters.

Andrew van Rooyen has been elected to the Central Coast Council in Tasmania through a recount to replace Casey Hiscutt.

His election continues a family tradition as he follows in the footsteps of his uncle Tony van Rooyen who previously served on the council.

The new councillor has a business and finance background, and told the Advocate he intends to help the council keep doing a great job with community consultation.

Launceston City Council has approved a 5.2% rate increase in its $150 million budget, down from the initially proposed 6.7% increase after community feedback about cost-of-living concerns.

The Mercury reported that the budget includes $34 million for capital works, with major projects focusing on the Princess Theatre and CBD improvements, though the reduced rate increase means the council will operate at a deficit.

SA:

A damning report has found Burnside Council to be "dysfunctional and psychologically unsafe."

The Advertiser reported that the report’s found the Council is characterised by widespread division, verbal abuse, and personal animosity particularly directed towards Mayor Anne Monceaux by a small group of elected members.

The report's findings, which were made public after a council vote last week, recommended ten urgent actions including limiting face-to-face interactions, outsourcing code-of-conduct complaints, and giving greater governance powers to the mayor to address the toxic culture and ensure the safety of council members and staff.

Adelaide Hills Council has unanimously approved an $80,000 funding package to support the 2026 Tour Down Under cycling event in the region, which will cover road maintenance, traffic management, and other logistical needs.

PowerFM reported that the decision was driven by the event's significant economic benefits and international exposure for the Hills region, though uncertainty exists regarding future sponsorship as current naming partner Santos is facing a sale to investors.

WA:

Port Hedland Council has voted to hold an extraordinary election in August, against officer recommendations and the advice of the Electoral Commission.

The decision was made at an extraordinary meeting on Thursday, and after Mayor Peter Carter issued a statement on Wednesday addressing the community about the vacancies and the electoral commission’s advice.

Ordinary elections are scheduled for 18th October, at which seven out of nine positions would have been available for election at that time, with two councillors’ terms to continue.

The Electoral Commission has recommended consolidating all vacancy elections to the October date to maximise voter participation and cost effectiveness, rather than holding separate extraordinary elections.

The NorthWest Telegraph reported that while the council voted to hold an extraordinary election on 23rd August, funding to run the elections independently has not been identified. That will be considered at the next ordinary council meeting, scheduled for this Wednesday.

In his statement earlier in the week, Mayor Carter highlighted issues with voter participation, noting the level of 23.8% at the previous election was well below the state average of 31.6%.

National Briefs:

Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery has met with the Queensland Premier and Cabinet which was in the city last week.

Mayor Flannery addressed the group about critical infrastructure and services needed for the growing City, including priorities such as the polycentric city vision, Bruce Highway Western Alternative, and preserving natural greenspace.

Vandalism costs have escalating to over $40K this year in Northern Midlands Council in Tasmania, with the latest incident in Valentines Park in Campbell Town.

Mayor Mary Knowles OAM told the Examiner that the vandalism was causing distress in the community and an inconvenience to everybody.

The Council has shared CCTV surveillance footage with police for their investigation.

The City of Darwin is seeking community feedback on its draft Place and Liveability Plan 2050, a comprehensive vision aimed at creating a more liveable, sustainable, and connected city over the next 25 years.

The plan is accompanied by an innovative, interactive Liveability Platform — a digital tool co-designed with the community.

Global Roundup:

UK:

Local authorities across the UK have experienced a dramatic 388% increase in cyber data breaches over the past three years, with metropolitan councils reporting over 12,700 breaches and paying more than £260,000 in compensation claims.

Sheffield City Council reported the highest number of security incidents at 1,512.

The figures come from an examination by Data Breach Claims UK, and have been reported in an article from Security Brief dot co dot uk

The Local Government Association has responded to the launch of consultations on local government funding reform and council tax collection in the UK, emphasising the need for adequate resources, financial certainty, and a simpler funding system.

The LGA has acknowledged the challenges of implementing changes, while highlighting councils' commitment to fair council tax collection practices that balance revenue needs with support for struggling households.

Meanwhile, the Labour government has announced plans to overhaul council funding rules in England to redirect more money towards poorer areas, according to BBC News.

The changes are set to be phased in over three years from 2026.

The shake-up aims to move around £2bn of funding to areas with higher deprivation levels and lower council tax bases, though rural councils have expressed concerns about potentially losing hundreds of millions in funding.

CANADA:

Members of North Bay's Franco-Ontarian community are requesting the city council to add their flag outside city hall, joining the existing Canadian, Ontario, and City of North Bay flags at Leger Square.

The request coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Franco-Ontarian flag, representing 400 years of French-speaking history in Ontario and the rights of approximately 8,000 French-speaking residents in North Bay.

NZ:

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown has rejected calls for a mayoral taskforce on dogs despite growing concerns from residents about roaming dogs making their neighbourhoods unsafe, according to Radio New Zealand.

The council maintains it is addressing the issue through existing programs, including a $5 million investment in animal management and free desexing services.

But residents and community groups say there has been insufficient progress and report ongoing safety concerns.

USA:

Tesla is reportedly launching its robotaxi service in Austin, Texas today, with driverless Model Y vehicles carrying passengers for a flat fee of $4.20, though the service includes safety monitors in the front passenger seats.

Reuters reported that the launch comes amid new state regulations requiring permits for autonomous vehicles and various safety restrictions.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed legislation on Friday, clearing the way for the significant milestone for Tesla, and perhaps the future of transport on city streets across the globe.

Roundup Extra: Clinton Jury, LGA SA interview