“Hateful narratives”: a world first strategy, and toxic culture rejected

In this edition of the Local Government News Roundup:

• Charges laid after seven years of Operation Sandon
• Mayors facing down discrimination and hateful narratives
• A world first anti-semitism strategy launched
• Shoalhaven Council rejects claims of a toxic culture
• A council under pressure to change its community vision
• A general manager appointment, and another councillor resignation
• NZ Police accused of inaction over online death threats against councillors, and
• The growing resistance movement against data centres across the US

plus more local government news from across Australia and beyond.

To ensure all councils can comply with mandatory requirements, no matter their size or location, the VLGA is offering a special Councillor Professional Development (CPD) Intensives series.

Partner with three other councils and save more than 50% off the minimum cost of completing all 13 modules in Year 1.

Chapters

• 0:51 Victorian Report
• 7:26 NSW Report
• 12:28 QLD Report
• 14:11 TAS/SA/WA Report
• 17:30 Global Report

Transcript

Victorian Roundup:

Victoria's anti-corruption watchdog has charged two people following a seven-year investigation into alleged corruption at Casey City Council in Melbourne's south-east.

A former unnamed Casey councillor has been charged with five offences including receiving secret commissions and misconduct in public office. An unnamed property development consultant has also been charged with giving secret commissions.

The charges stem from Operation Sandon, which previously found that developer John Woodman paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to councillors in exchange for support on lucrative development projects.

The IBAC report tabled last year described "a web of well-orchestrated strategies designed to manipulate Casey Council decision-making processes."

While IBAC didn’t name the accused individuals, the Herald Sun and The Age have named former mayor Sam Aziz and Mr Woodman as the two individuals facing charges.

Both accused are expected to appear in Melbourne Magistrates Court on September 25th.

The Mayor of Yarra City Council Stephen Jolly has expressed strong support for the city’s diverse community after a hate-filled Nazi demonstration at Parliament and Camp Sovereignty in Kings Domain.

In a statement, Cr Jolly said that refugees and immigrants make valuable contributions to the community, and countered incorrect racist narratives about jobs and housing.

He said, “To all those who no longer feel safe in our City, we have your back.”

Brimbank Mayor Cr Thuy Dang has also issued a statement, emphasising the city’s pride in being one of Australia's most diverse and multicultural communities, with a commitment to creating an inclusive environment free from discrimination.

Cr Dang has reassured residents that Brimbank City Council stands with community members during difficult times, dedicated to maintaining a safe and welcoming place for everyone.

Queenscliffe community members have petitioned the Borough of Queenscliffe to revise its recently adopted community vision.

The Ocean Grove Voice reported that the petitioners are claiming that key components of the vision relating to environmental responsibility and First Nations reconciliation were altered without proper consultation.

The petition, signed by 407 people including 271 local residents and ratepayers, requests the council to release consultation reports, rescind the current vision, and restore core components of the original vision.

The matter is scheduled for discussion at the September 24 council meeting.

Melton City Council is urging the Victorian government to strengthen regulations around developer advertising in new housing estates, particularly targeting misleading promises about infrastructure and amenities.

ABC News reported on how residents in Mt Atkinson feel misled by developer marketing materials that promised facilities like a Westfield shopping centre that will no longer be built, leaving them isolated without basic services despite paying premium prices for their homes.

Melton Mayor Steve Abboushi said the council wants to see more enforcement and more regulation on the issue.

Bass Coast Shire Council is proposing to reduce speed limits to 30km/h on local roads in several Phillip Island estates.

The move is designed to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists who must share narrow, unmade roads with vehicles.

The community can provide feedback on these proposals until September 26, 2025, with final approval required from the Department of Transport and Planning.

Mornington Peninsula Shire is transitioning to a new partnership model for youth services delivery, working with external providers to offer more flexible and targeted services while maintaining Council leadership in coordination and planning.

Mayor Anthony Marsh said the change will boost the range and reach of services available to young people in the shire.

Under the new model, three existing youth hubs will activated as service centres, and accessibility improved for those who find it hard to reach physical locations.

Victorian Briefs:

Colac Botanic Gardens Pond has been vandalised through a series of premeditated acts, where perpetrators accessed a powerbox, used a submersible pump to drain water, and stole goldfish while damaging barriers.

Colac Otway Shire Council is urging community members to report any information to police, and has expressed concern about the potential impact on planned fountain restoration works if further vandalism occurs.

Trentham has been named the Top Tiny Tourism Town at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards, beating competitors from across Australia.

Hepburn Shire Council Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, said that this was a remarkable achievement for Trentham and the region.

Mildura has been selected as one of only 19 towns across Australia to receive a community piano through the ABC's Pop-Up Piano initiative.

The piano will be officially welcomed at the Mildura Visitor Information Centre on September 10, where it will remain available for public use for six months.

Mayor Helen Healy has congratulated the Mildura District Orchestra on their successful application for the program.

VLGA Message:

Places are filling fast for the VLGA’s Mayoral Leadership Program.  Book now to secure your place.

The program, now in its second year, is designed to equip mayors and deputy mayors with the knowledge they need to lead their council effectively and with good governance at their foundation.

It is now mandatory for Mayors and Deputy Mayors to undertake training at the commencement of each mayoral term. Under the new Victorian Government reforms this training must be completed by 31 December 2025.

The VLGA Mayoral Leadership Program will be held on Friday, 28 November from 9.30am to 4.30pm at the Monash Conference Centre, 30 Collins St, Melbourne.

The full-day program will cover the roles and responsibilities of a mayor, the mayor-CEO relationship, how to chair a council meeting, managing difficult conversations, dispute resolution and effective communications and media training and directly aligns with the state governments mandatory professional development requirements.

National Roundup:

NSW:

Waverley Council has launched Australia's first Model Antisemitism Strategy to help councils address antisemitism and strengthen community cohesion, providing practical advice that can be adapted to local contexts.

The Model, unveiled at the Mayors Summit Against Antisemitism, supports councils in taking action against rising antisemitism and demonstrating leadership in promoting safety, diversity, and inclusion.

Shoalhaven Council has passed a motion rejecting claims of a toxic work culture following the resignation of Councillor Natalee Johnston, who cited bullying, bloc-voting, and intimidation as reasons for her departure.

The South Coast Register reported that some councillors, including Bob Proudfoot, defended the council's culture as positive, while others disagreed.

The controversial motion ultimately passed by eight votes to four.

Meanwhile, the council has proposed a second phase of staff restructuring aimed at simplifying operations and improving financial sustainability,

It will disestablish over 50 positions (mostly vacant) while creating 14 new ones, and is expected to save $4.6 million this financial year.

Craig Covich has been appointed as the new General Manager of Mosman Council, bringing over 20 years of local government experience including his previous role as Director Environment and Planning.

The appointment follows a competitive recruitment process with unanimous Council endorsement.

Mayor Ann Marie Kimber highlighted Mr. Covich's integral role in building Mosman's strong financial position and community relationships.

Mr. Covich has commenced a five-year performance-based contract after serving as Acting General Manager since 2 July, following the retirement of Dominic Johnson after nine years at the helm.

Blue Mountains City Council has reiterated its opposition to the Western Sydney International Airport's proposed 24/7 operation with no curfew and its flight paths over the UNESCO World Heritage region.

Mayor Mark Greenhill restated the Council’s position as the public exhibition period for the airport master plan came to a close this week.

The Council has submitted formal objections both independently and as part of Sydney's Parkland Councils alliance, continuing to advocate for addressing potential noise and environmental impacts on the Blue Mountains.

Port Stephens Council is considering selling 11 parcels of land, including a beloved Salamander Bay park that has sparked community outrage with over 1,700 petition signatures opposing the sale.

The Port Stephens Examiner reported that residents are fighting to preserve the green space which serves as a community hub and beach access point, and is home to a century-old tree that would likely be demolished if the land is sold to fund road repairs.

Bega MP Michael Holland has criticised Eurobodalla Shire Council's unanimous vote to campaign against the closure of Batemans Bay Hospital Emergency Department.

He told radio 2EC that decision contradicts his advice.

Dr. Holland has arranged a briefing of councillors to explain the necessity of the closure and maintains that the State Government will not reverse its decision.

Uralla Shire Council is considering a Special Rate Variation (SRV) of 28.5 percent in 2026-27 and 23 percent in 2027-28 to combat rising costs and maintain financial stability.

The council says the measure is about preserving existing services rather than expansion, and has launched a webpage for residents to provide feedback before formal consultation begins in October.

NSW Briefs:

Central Coast Council has agreed to join a NSW Department of Primary Industries' trial to remove shark nets from one local beach, citing the effectiveness of alternative technologies like drones and listening devices.

The DPI will select which beach to include in the trial based on a review of the region's current shark management program.

Inner West Council has partnered with social enterprise ZapCat to offer residents free, independent advice on electrifying their homes with technologies like solar panels, heat pumps, and EV chargers.

The program provides online cost estimates, expert consultations, and connections to vetted local installers, making it easier for households and small businesses to navigate the often complex process of energy upgrades.

Zest Fest returns to Orange on November 1, featuring San Cisco as headliners alongside four distinct program areas that include a Main Stage, Live & Local Stage, Art Activation Zone, and Museum Activation.

The expanded free festival is now officially part of the Orange Wine Festival calendar, is backed by funding from the NSW Government, Orange City Council and others.

QLD:

Burdekin Shire Council has temporarily suspended Welcome to Country ceremonies at official events while it develops a formal policy on the traditional practice.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort confirmed to the Townsville Bulletin that the council is "no longer doing Welcome to Countries," stating simply, "we don't do that here."

The decision follows controversy that erupted late last year when Juru Elder Randall Ross claimed the Kyburra Munda Yulga Aboriginal Corporation had voted against continuing the practice on their ancestral lands. However, this claim has been disputed by other members of the corporation who maintain no such vote occurred.

Council documents reveal ongoing confusion over which group has the authority to approve Welcome to Country ceremonies in the region.

The Queensland Government and Bundaberg Regional Council are partnering on a comprehensive 20-year plan to enhance connectivity, safety, and economic growth across the region's transport networks.

The strategy targets key priorities including CBD revitalisation, hospital access, residential growth areas, flood resilience, and improved freight and public transport connectivity to support both locals and tourism.

The strategy’s direction and priorities received 92 per cent support in community feedback.

Rockhampton Regional Council has revised its Undetected Leak Rebate Policy, now allowing residents to claim once every three years and charging excess consumption at the lowest tier rate.

The policy aims to support residents facing unexpectedly high water charges from hidden leaks while ensuring the program remains sustainable for the community long-term.

TAS:

Waratah-Wynyard councillor Gary Bramich has proposed repurposing a disused section of rail line in Somerset as a visitor attraction, potentially featuring historic carriages and a coffee cart.

The proposal would require approval from Burnie City Council, which manages the strategic infrastructure corridor that was formerly part of the Tasmanian rail network until its closure in 2003.

The Advocate reported that the council will hold a workshop meeting to discuss the idea.

SA:

Whyalla City Council is supporting Federal and State government initiatives to protect the nationally significant Giant Cuttlefish congregation at Point Lowly from an approaching algae bloom through the implementation of an innovative air bubble curtain technology.

The 200-meter underwater barrier will disrupt algae movement if the bloom reaches Upper Spencer Gulf waters.

Whyalla Mayor Phill Stone said the Giant Cuttlefish are a vital part of the region’s identity and ecosystem, and a collaborative approach was key to addressing the potential threat efficiently.

The iconic Australian film "Sunday Too Far Away" is returning to its roots for a special 50th anniversary celebration.

The 1975 classic, which stars Jack Thompson as a shearer leading workers in a strike against wealthy landowners, was filmed in and around Quorn in the Flinders Ranges.

To mark the milestone, the Council will host special screenings of the film, projected onto the Quorn Silos every Saturday night throughout September.

WA:

City of Melville Councillor Tomas Fitzgerald has resigned effective immediately, having served since 2019 with a focus on climate change impacts.

Due to the timing of his departure, an extraordinary election will need to be held to fill his position, which was originally set to continue until 2027.

The Town of Cambridge has admitted to overcharging more than 4,600 property owners in City Beach and Floreat after making two errors in the striking of rates and the adoption of its budget.

Chief Executive Lisa Clack apologise for the mistake, amounting to nearly $1M, which was discovered after a vigilant ratepayer questioned their bill.

Refunds ranging from just under $9 to more than $2,400 have been approved at a special council meeting held this week to determine a response to the blunder.

The council has assured residents that no services will be cut as a result of the corrected budget.

Fremantle has been awarded the Gold title of Australia's Top Tourism Town 2025 at a ceremony in Canberra, recognising its authentic experiences, heritage, culture, and coastline.

The port city, which attracts nearly a million day-trippers annually, triumphed over finalists from Tasmania, New South Wales, and three other states in the category for towns with populations over 5,000.

Mayor Hanna Fitzhardinge accepted the award and said it was recognition for the many passionate people, guides, volunteers, operators, artists and business owners who bring Fremantle to life.

Global Roundup:

NZ:

Grey District Council officials are disappointed with police inaction over online death threats to councillors, questioning why authorities can't act on serious threats of violence including waterboarding and assassination.

1News reported on a police statement in which they said they do not condone the behaviour, but there was not enough evidence of the alleged offences to take further action.

Mayor Tania Gibson said there was a disappointing inconsistency in enforcement, pointing out that similar threats have resulted in charges in other districts while their council has been left to implement additional security measures at ratepayers' expense.

UK:

A damning report has revealed that five senior officials at Glasgow City Council received over £1 million in early retirement and redundancy payments without proper scrutiny.

BBC News reported that the Accounts Commission found that restructuring proposals, which led to the substantial pay-outs between 2021 and 2024, were approved by some of the very individuals who directly benefited from them.

That created what investigators called "the appearance of a conflict of interest."

The Commission said the actions of these senior staff "fell short of the values and principles expected" in the public sector.

Glasgow City Council's deputy leader Richard Bell acknowledged the findings and said the council had already taken steps to change processes and increase elected member oversight when senior officials leave.

Birmingham bin workers have voted to extend their industrial action potentially through March next year in their dispute over pay and job role downgrades.

That would mark a full year of strike action, according to the BBC.

The city council says it has been reasonable during negotiations but needs to transform the service.

But the union alleges that government-appointed commissioners have prevented a potential resolution deal from being implemented.

The Guardian reports that Coventry City Council is reviewing its £500,000-a-year contract with US technology company Palantir following protests over the firm's connections to the Israel Defense Forces and concerns about AI replacing human workers.

The council has been using Palantir's AI systems in its children's services department for tasks including case-note transcription and summarising social workers' records, and had plans to expand the technology's use across other services.

USA:

A proposed data centre on 500 acres in Indianapolis is in peril, according to the Indianapolis Star.

The City-County Council is set to reject the Google proposal, which requires a rezoning request to get through the council, after receiving approval from development commissioners last month.

It’s just one example of a growing resistance to the expansion of data centres across the US, which use vast amounts of water and power.

In Northern Virginia, known as the world's data centre capital with over 300 facilities, officials are implementing are implementing stricter regulations and halting development projects.

Fierce Network dot com has reported on how developers are looking to alternative locations like Ohio, Indiana, and Texas, to build increasingly larger facilities, but they are facing similar opposition concerns about noise, water usage, and land preservation in these new areas.

$64 billion worth of data centre projects are already affected by local protests, and some predict federal intervention will be needed to resolve the growing tension between AI-era infrastructure needs and community concerns.