Housing first, claims refuted, and a community devastated - ft.Georgia Forde #521

In this edition of the Local Government News Roundup:

• A Victorian-first housing initiative launched in Frankston
• Ballarat refutes claims about a waste processing tender
• The latest mayoral election results from around Victoria
• Liverpool’s Mayor on the stand at a public inquiry
• More NSW Councils considering special rate variations
• A Muswellbrook Shire Council community devastated by the loss of century-old hall;
• Deficient procurement processes under the microscope at Douglas Shire
• a proposal to merge Hobart and Glenorchy councils deferred to an elector poll.
• a former Town of Port Hedland councillor suing the Town and former colleagues in the Supreme Court;
• a major shakeup of New Zealand local government

Also today: Honours student Georgia Forde talks about her research into the barriers to achieving gender parity at the elected level in Victorian local government.

Chapters

• 2:14 Victorian Report
• 11:18 NSW Report
• 16:31 National Report
• 21:35 Global Report
• 25:57 Roundup Extrra - Georgie Forde

Transcript

Victorian Report

Frankston City Council is introducing two major housing initiatives to boost development and affordability.

From February, major developments will get fast-tracked approvals in just 16 weeks.

From July 2026, first-home buyers will receive a $1,000 subsidy - a Victorian first at local government level.

The council aims to deliver 33,000 new homes by 2051 as the population grows beyond 150,000.

Darebin Council has approved a 7.5 million dollar upgrade plan for High Street in Preston, under which the speed limit will be cut to 30 kilometres per hour.

The plan includes removing clearways, adding zebra crossings and planting dozens of trees, but cyclists are disappointed there's no dedicated bike lane, according to The Age.

The upgrade will require additional state and federal funding to complete over the next three years.

The City of Ballarat has refuted claims a food waste processing tender was awarded to a company without proper EPA permits.

Council confirms Green Care Mulching's Balliang site does hold the necessary permissions, though they're listed under a different company name.

FOGO waste is currently being processed at the company's Geelong facility while the Balliang site undergoes upgrades.

The Balliang facility is expected to be operational in 2026, when compost from the FOGO collection program will become available to residents.

A Victorian MP and developer are urging Melton City Council to skip public consultation to fast-track approvals for a shopping centre in Mt Atkinson.

ABC News reported the town centre was approved in 2017 as part of a plan for 8,000 homes and 19,000 jobs, but eight years later 10,000 residents still lack basic shops.

The developer claims the $100-million project is "shovel ready" while residents face 40-minute round trips for essentials like bread and milk, raising concerns with Member for Kororoit Luba Grigorovitch.

The Council says it received 148 community responses and insists proper consultation is essential for such a significant project, with a decision expected in February 2026.

The Rural City of Wangaratta will shut down its North East Family Day Care Service from January 1st.

The Council said the closure follows years of declining educator numbers that left the scheme running at a significant financial loss.

Eight educators and around 40 families across Wangaratta and Indigo Shire will be affected.

The Council is working with another provider to help families and educators transition to alternative care arrangements.

Mayoral elections update

24/11/25

Cardinia Shire 2025/26 - Mayor Cr Brett Owen, Deputy Mayor Cr Liz Roberts

Wodonga City 2025/26 - Mayor Cr Michael Gobel, Deputy Mayor Cr Libby Hall

25/11/25

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has a new leadership team, with the election today of Cr Kate Kendall as mayor, and Cr Cassy Borthwick as deputy mayor.

Cr Kendall has been the Acting Mayor since earlier this month, after Cr Dom Bonnano stepped aside having admitted to speeding in the mayoral vehicle, with a blood alcohol limit above the legal limit.

Cr Jordan Lockett has been elected the new mayor of Moyne Shire Council.

Cr Lockett was deputy mayor last year.

He is joined in the leadership team by Cr Myra Murrihy, who was elected deputy mayor.

There were two nominations for each position, with Cr Jim Doukas unsuccessfully contesting both.

Cr Kate Makin and Cr Laurie Hickey have been re-elected as mayor and deputy mayor of Corangamite Shire Council.

It marks three consecutive years in the roles for both councillors.

Cr Geraldine Conheady was nominated for both roles which were decided by a 4-3 vote.

Brimbank Council has elected Virginia Tachos as mayor, with Maria Kerr to serve as deputy.

Wangaratta council has re-elected Irene Grant for another year as mayor, with Harvey Benton elected as deputy mayor.

At Alpine Shire, the council has opted for a change, electing Gareth Graham as mayor. Sarah Nicholas steps back from mayor to deputy mayor, after unsuccessfully seeking another term as mayor.

Indigo Shire Council has re-elected Cr Jane Dowsley as deputy mayor for 12 months, alongside Cr Sophie Price, who is midway through a two year term as mayor.

and at Mansfield Shire Council, the leadership team has been maintained with the re-election of Cr Steve Rabie as mayor, and Cr James Tehan as deputy mayor. They were the only nominations for their respective roles.

There are six Councils yet to elect mayors and deputy mayors, with Nillumbik, Queenscliffe and Towong set to do so today; Latrobe and Horsham yet to come this week, and Frankston expected to conduct its election next month.

A by-election will be held in March 2026 for Greater Bendigo City Council's Lockwood Ward following the resignation of Cr John McIlrath.

Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel says residents must enrol by 4pm on January 14th to vote in the postal election.

Around 10,000 Victorians are enrolled in the ward, which includes West Bendigo, Maiden Gully, and Lockwood.

Voting is compulsory for all enrolled residents.

A new silo art installation at Serviceton in Victoria's West Wimmera has been completed by Adelaide artist Jack Fran.

The mural depicts the South Australia-Victoria border dispute and features historical surveyors Henry Wade and Edward White.

Council CEO David Bezuidenhout said the artwork reflected the town’s strong sense of identity and pride.

The artwork joins existing painted silos at Kaniva and Goroke, strengthening the region as a destination for art enthusiasts and tourists.

Latrobe City Council, in partnership with Gippsland Region Public Health Unit and six Gippsland councils, has launched No Filter: Real Stories — a youth-led vaping prevention campaign co-designed with young people across Gippsland over 18 months.

The campaign shares authentic stories from local youth about quitting vaping, choosing not to start, and supporting friends to make healthier choices.

Victorian Briefs

Hume City Council's Jacksons Hill redevelopment in Sunbury has been shortlisted for a National Growth Areas Alliance Award in the Place & Community Activation category, recognising the transformation of a former psychiatric ward into a community arts and cultural precinct.

Baw Baw Shire Council has launched a new Emergency Dashboard that consolidates verified emergency information from multiple sources into one central online platform accessible via Council's website.

The dashboard aims to provide residents with timely, accurate information about emergencies, road closures, power outages, and weather updates without needing to search across multiple websites and apps.

Maribyrnong City Council has introduced a dusk to dawn cat curfew as part of its new domestic animal management plan.

The 7pm to 7am curfew will commence from 1 July next year, with a 24/7 cat curfew to be revisited in the longer term.

Swan Hill Rural City Council has welcomed the lifting of the blue-green algae warning at Lake Boga by Goulburn-Murray Water, allowing the lake to reopen in time for the summer season.

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NSW Report

Northern Beaches Council has slashed the affordable housing mandate for new developments in Frenchs Forest from 10 per cent to just 3 per cent, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

The original requirement was set in 2021 as part of a plan to build 1800 new homes, but only four applications have been approved and none have started construction.

Developers argued the 10 per cent rate made projects unviable, while residents complained they've been left in limbo unable to sell their homes.

But there are warnings that the reduction could turn the suburb into an "enclave of exclusivity" and price out essential workers.

The council says the lower rate will stimulate housing growth and bring it in line with other parts of the northern beaches.

Hawkesbury City Council has voted to apply for a Special Rates Variation of 8.66% annually over four years.

The move aims to address a $99.1 million asset renewal shortfall projected to reach $170 million within a decade.

All funds raised will be spent exclusively on infrastructure renewal and upgrades.

The decision follows extensive community consultation with over 2,300 submissions received.

A decision from IPART is expected in May 2026.

Blacktown City Council is set to consider a proposed $170 annual rate increase tonight after wrapping up community consultation.

The rise aims to tackle a looming $700 million financial crisis over the next decade.

The Daily Telegraph reports on strong opposition from residents, while Mayor Brad Bunting says the increase is necessary to meet growing community needs and maintain services.

Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun has defended his decision to sack Chief Executive John Ajaka after a heated budget meeting, under questioning at a public inquiry into alleged dysfunction and maladministration at the council.

Despite forwarding joke messages about the incident immediately after the meeting, Mannoun insisted he was upset and trying to de-escalate tensions.

Mr Ajaka became the council's 10th CEO to be ousted in eight years when he was terminated in May 2024.

The Daily Telegraph reported on the latest developments from the continuing inquiry before Commissioner Ross Glover.

Tweed Shire Council has voted to bring tourism services in-house when the current contract with DR Tourism ends in September 2026.

The annual $1.06 million investment will maintain current service levels but with greater alignment across Council departments.

DR Tourism has been commended for seven years of award-winning work during challenging times.

Key events like Savour the Tweed will continue under the new model.

Muswellbrook Shire Council says the loss of the Wybong Hall to fire is heartbreaking for the local community.

The hall, considered the heart of the Wybong community for more than a century, was destroyed in a blaze on Monday morning.

Fire and Rescue NSW said the fire had been burning for some time before being reported.

The old hall was completely destroyed and an adjacent new hall was also extensively damaged and described as “largely a loss”.

In a statement, the council said the loss is felt widely in the community, and that it had reached out to the Wybong Hall Committee to offer full support.

The council said it will continue to stand with the Wybong community as the situation becomes clearer.

Leeton Shire Council has joined Camden Council in taking out the 2025 AR Bluett Memorial Award, the highest honour in NSW local government.

Leeton won the regional/rural category, while Camden was recognised in the metropolitan category.

Judges praised both councils for their clarity, innovation and genuine community partnerships.

The award, established in 1945, recognises exceptional leadership and service delivery.

Local Government NSW President Phyllis Miller says it celebrates councils that go above and beyond for their communities.

LGNSW and the Country Mayors Association of NSW have extended their Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen collaboration and amplify local government voices across the state.

The agreement, signed by LGNSW President Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM and CMA Chairman Rick Firman OAM at the Annual Conference, establishes a framework for cooperation on policy development, advocacy, and information sharing.

The partnership aims to address key challenges facing rural, regional, and remote communities, including financial sustainability, skills shortages, water management, and infrastructure maintenance.

Lake Macquarie City Council has launched a Youth Excellence Sponsorship program, investing over $30,000 annually to support high-performing young people under 18.

The YES! program offers grants of up to $1,000 for teams and $300 for individuals competing at elite levels in sport, science, arts, technology, and academia.

Mayor Adam Shultz says the initiative aims to break down financial barriers for families.

Applications are now open at lakemac.com.au.

NSW Briefs:

The University of Newcastle is in negotiations to purchase Central Coast Council's former Gosford administration building and other CBD sites, with market offers paused for four months during this process.

Council will receive an update on the negotiations and due diligence at the December 2025 meeting.

LGNSW is seeking expressions of interest from councillors for appointment to the NSW Local Government Boundaries Commission, an independent body that examines matters related to local government area boundaries.

Two commissioners will be selected from a panel of eight nominees submitted by LGNSW, with appointments typically lasting five years and offering $25,000 annual remuneration.

Kiama Council's Local Housing Strategy, adopted in July 2025, has been endorsed by the NSW Government, confirming it aligns with state planning frameworks and demonstrates a well-considered approach to future housing decisions.

The 20-year strategy aims to balance housing growth with preserving the region's unique character while meeting community needs and ensuring consistency with broader regional goals.

Queensland Report

Nick Dametto has been sworn in as Townsville's 48th Mayor following his victory in the recent by-election.

The former Member for Hinchinbrook took the declaration of office on Tuesday in a special Council meeting.

Dametto won the postal vote completed on November 15, with the Electoral Commission officially declaring him Mayor Elect on November 19.

The new Mayor says he has just two years to deliver what most would be afforded four, promising to fast-track policies and projects to bring pride and prosperity back to Townsville.

The Queensland Audit Office has found significant deficiencies in procurement processes at Douglas Shire Council, according to the Cairns Post.

Eight contracts were reviewed, revealing missing paperwork, cost blowouts, and suppliers chosen without proper justification.

Most issues stemmed from contracts following Tropical Cyclone Jasper in 2023.

CEO Scott Osman says any appropriate disciplinary action will be taken, while policies have been tightened and an independent review has been launched into high value contracts.

Mayor Lisa Scomazzon released a statement in which she said the council is taking the matters seriously, and expressed confidence in the CEO and leadership team as they “tackle historical issues.”

Brisbane City Council is planning to increase building heights in Fortitude Valley as part of its "up, not out" housing strategy, according to the Brisbane Times.

The current city plan is 15 years old, with buildings ranging from eight to 30 storeys.

The updated plan will allow taller structures in some locations to support urban renewal while maintaining the area's entertainment and cultural focus.

Around 11,500 people live in the Valley, with nearly 28,000 working there.

Community consultation opens December 8, with a final plan expected by 2027.

Logan City Council has begun planting the second stage of man-made wetlands at the Cedar Grove Environmental Centre, which uses advanced membrane bioreactor technology to treat wastewater before filtering it through wetlands that absorb remaining nutrients.

The expansion furthers Council's commitment to sustainable wastewater management and protects the Logan River ecosystem by significantly reducing nutrient discharge.

The Queensland-first facility features seven hectares of wetlands, a 2.5-kilometre riverside walking trail, and a native plant nursery.

Tasmania

Hobart City Council has voted to delay amalgamation talks with neighbouring Glenorchy, opting instead for an elector poll at the next local government election.

Alderman Marti Zucco's proposal to create a merged "Council of Clark" was amended by councillors who want ratepayers to decide first, according to Pulse Tasmania.

An evidence-based report examining the merger's implications will be commissioned before any vote takes place.

Zucco criticised the decision as "delaying the inevitable" and a "massive failure of leadership".

South Australia

The City of Victor Harbor has taken direct control of the Victa Cinema from Country Arts SA.

CEO Victoria MacKirdy said the cinema is one of few remaining heritage cinemas operating in South Australia, and the move is part of a long-term plan to create an arts and culture hub linking the cinema, town hall, and art space.

All current staff have been invited to stay on under council management.

Councillor Steven Rypp has been appointed as the Walkerville Council's new Deputy Mayor for twelve months.

Cr Rypp has a decade of experience in governance and executive support across not-for-profit and public sectors. He takes over from outgoing Deputy Mayor Jay Allanson.

Western Australia

Former Town of Port Hedland councillor Telona Pitt is reportedly suing the Town and some former council colleagues, alleging a conspiracy to unlawfully remove her from office.

Under the heading “Council Chaos Continues”, the NorthWest Telegraph reported that Ms Pitt is seeking damages for severe emotional distress.

No official comment yet from the council, which is due to meet today, with the appointment of an Acting CEO on its agenda.

The Peel region experienced exceptionally high mosquito numbers in 2025 due to intense tidal inundations, the worst since 2022, according to a report to the City of Mandurah council this week.

PerthNow reported that Ross River virus cases jumped to 71 in the Peel region, up from 55 the previous season, with 365 cases statewide.

Local governments and the Department of Health have injected an extra $200,000 into mosquito management, but the program was still overspent by nearly $15,000.

Experts warn 2026 will bring another demanding breeding season following one of the wettest winters in years.

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Global Report

NZ:

New Zealand is scrapping regional councils in a major local government overhaul, reported by Radio New Zealand.

The government yesterday announced plans to abolish the country's 11 regional councils, with mayors from city and district councils taking over their duties through new Combined Territories Boards.

The boards will have two years to develop Regional Reorganisation Plans to restructure local government in their areas.

Ministers say the changes will reduce duplication and put downward pressure on rates, but can't guarantee current regional councillors will serve their full terms.

Consultation on the plan closes February 20th, with legislation expected to pass in 2027.

Wellington City Council has released an independent review by Deloitte examining its processes and spending.

Chief Executive Matt Prosser commissioned the Future Fit Pōneke report in August to identify opportunities for improved performance and rates affordability.

The report found the Council has 330 excess staff members, including up to 117 surplus managers, and poorly managed contracts.

But Mr Prosser has urged caution with the report's recommendations, describing it as a "snapshot" that conflicts with community wishes and previous council decisions.

He said the Council has already removed 58 roles and implemented tight vacancy management as part of cost-saving measures.

Prosser says operational improvements are underway, but technology-focused efficiencies require significant investment.

UK:

Several London councils including Kensington & Chelsea, Hackney, Westminster, and Hammersmith & Fulhamhave been targeted in cyber-attacks over the past 48 hours, according to BBC News.

Westminster City Council has shut down all networks as a precaution, while Hackney has raised its threat level to critical.

The attacks have disrupted IT systems and councils are working with cyber specialists to restore services and protect data.

A Cambridgeshire County Council worker has been sacked after falsifying documents that left the authority vulnerable to a £93,000 fraud.

BBC News reported that the employee failed to verify a bank detail change request, claiming they had called the supplier when they had not.

A fraudster had compromised the supplier's email account and requested the change, with four payments made before the scam was discovered in May.

The council has strengthened its verification processes and reported the incident to police, though the funds are lost and the suspect has fled the country.

A council in Northern Ireland has voted unanimously to rename Prince Andrew Way in Carrickfergus - the first UK street to do so, according to Sky News.

The decision follows the King's removal of his brother from public life over ties to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

Councillors at Mid and East Antrim Council say the name change is "sad but necessary" given Andrew's alleged actions.

The process will involve public consultation and liaison with postal services, though officials warn it won't be straightforward.

About ten addresses will be affected, with the council examining whether it can cover residents' costs.

CANADA:

Edmonton homeowners will pay an extra $230 a year starting in 2026 as the city tables its budget with a 6.4% property tax increase, as reported by CTV News.

City staff say they've worked to keep costs down despite tens of millions in inflation pressures, but some services like bus and facility cleaning will see cuts.

The Council will debate the budget from December 1st to 4th, with little room for major changes in this final year of the four-year budget cycle.

Halifax Regional Municipality is staring down a proposed 10.5 per cent property tax increase to support an 88.9 million dollar budget increase.

Mayor Andy Fillmore says people simply can't afford it, especially with rate increases from Halifax Water and Nova Scotia Power.

Councillors are searching for cuts in an already bare-bones budget.

Last year they whittled an 8.4 per cent increase down to a flat rate, but this year presents new challenges.

Budget deliberations are underway there now.

Roundup Extra:

Despite significant advancements in recent times, many barriers remain that hinder women's participation and success in political roles.

Today on Roundup Extra, Georgia Forde, a recent honours graduate in politics and policy studies, sheds light on these challenges, particularly in Victoria, where the quest for gender parity in local councils is far from over.