Australia Day controversies, merger ambush, and councillor suspensions - #543

In this edition of the Local Government News Roundup:

• An urgent call for action on bushfire support
• A NSW councillor under fire for controversial Australia Day comments
• A close-knot town in mourning, as the hunt continues for a council worker turned fugitive
• A warning for parents from a Queensland mayor
• Two Tasmanian councillors suspended for conduct breaches
• Hobart City Council under watch from the local government minister
• A council rejects a merger "ambush",
• and calls for the Mayor of Alice Springs to resign

Also today, strong representation from local government in this year’s Australia Day honours list.

Chapters

• 1:50 Victorian Report
• 7:23 NSW Report
• 10:34 Queensland Report
• 13:27 Tasmania Report
• 16:08 South Australia Report
• 17:18 WA/NT Report
• 18:41 Australia Day Honours - Local Government
• 21:23 Global Report

Transcript

Victorian Report

Murrindindi Shire Council has issued an urgent call to action following the devastating bushfires that have torn through the region.

At a special meeting last week, Council formally acknowledged the widespread impact of the fires, including the loss of homes, businesses, livestock and wildlife. The community is also mourning the death of local resident Maxwell Hobson from Terip Terip.

Mayor Damien Gallagher says recovery must be community-led and strongly supported by all levels of government.

"This will be a long journey, but we will walk it together," Mayor Gallagher said.

Council is calling for genuine partnership with state and federal governments, with priority support for the agricultural sector and local economy. The meeting also passed measures allowing council officers to act quickly on urgent recovery works.

Meanwhile, the Council has warned that road conditions in and around fire-affected areas remain hazardous. Residents and organisations providing relief and recovery services are urged to take extreme care, and only enter closed roads when formally authorised.

Wyndham City Council has released figures on its Truganina Security Patrol Trial, which started in November.

At the halfway point, the trial has logged 478 incident reports over 45 patrol nights, primarily focusing on passive deterrence and providing valuable insights for community safety improvements.

The trial is helping Council identify crime patterns and hotspots, though Mayor Councillor Josh Gilligan notes that state government support would be needed to expand the program beyond the current pilot.

Moorabool Shire Council has opened consultation on introducing a municipal charge, which would apply a fixed fee to all properties.

Total rates collected would be the same, but there would be changes to how that total amount is shared across properties.

The proposed change would impact different properties differently, with some seeing rate decreases and others increases.

The Council has provided a rating calculator and resources to help residents understand the potential impact on their individual properties.

The City of Whittlesea is developing a business case for a Youth Hub to serve its large and growing youth population (35% aged 25 or under), with sites in Epping and South Morang being considered for the first hub in the municipality.

The proposed "Hub and Spoke" model would feature a central hub providing core programs and services, with satellite locations delivering activities closer to where young people live.

Council will assess social and financial implications, engage with young people, and seek State Government funding, with the business case expected to come to Council in March.

The Upper Yarra Star Mail reports on the Outer Melbourne Councils group push for the restoration of the Growing Suburbs Fund after it was axed by the Victorian State Government.

That’s despite outer metropolitan areas being forecast to experience the state's highest population growth.

The fund previously delivered over $445 million across 370 infrastructure projects in growing suburbs including Yarra Ranges and Cardinia, but was gradually reduced and eliminated in the 2025-2026 budget.

ABC News has profiled Cr Tony Clark, who has been legally blind since age 20, and became the first person with a disability to serve as mayor of Hepburn Shire Council in November.

Cr Clark aims to bring unique perspectives to the role, and advocate for accessibility improvements that benefit everyone.

Using adaptive technology and with workplace accommodations including his guide dog Timmy, Cr Clark is inspiring future disabled leaders by demonstrating that lived experience with disability is a strength, not a limitation.

A beloved piece of Victorian childhood is set to receive official heritage protection. The iconic rocket playground in Benalla's Botanical Gardens is on course for heritage listing, preserving a rare connection to the space race era.

The eight-metre-tall rocket, erected in 1966, is one of only four remaining in Victoria and has been recommended for inclusion in the Victorian Heritage Register by Heritage Victoria.

Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn, who climbed the rocket as a child, says it's more than just playground equipment. "Meet you at the rocket is an iconic saying in our town," she explains.

From the 1980s onwards, many playground rockets were removed or modified with plastic slides. Only about 15 are estimated to still exist across Australia, making Benalla's metal-slide version particularly significant.

The listing will be open for public feedback until March 17, with a final decision expected mid-year. The Age

Victorian Briefs

The generosity of the Greater Shepparton community has been demonstrated after a call for support for bushfire affected communities.

85 fruit bins of essential supplies were donated to a Drop-Off Centre at Shepparton Showgrounds, and then delivered to the Seymour Relief Centre.

The Council has continued to provide staff and emergency management assistance to affected areas.

The City of Greater Geelong is developing a film and screen-production strategy to potentially establish a world-class movie studio that would complement Melbourne's Docklands Studios.

The city is collaborating with Pelligra, VicScreen, and Deakin University on the strategy to assess market demand, infrastructure needs, and workforce capacity.

Ararat Rural City Council has joined the Back Your Neighbour campaign alongside over 40 Australian councils to advocate for fairness and dignity for people seeking asylum.

The community is encouraged to support the campaign through social media engagement, sending messages to MPs, and partnering with the initiative to build an inclusive and welcoming environment.

NSW Report

A Western Sydney councillor is facing widespread criticism after making controversial comments about Australia Day.

According to the Daily Telegraph, Independent Cumberland councillor Ahmed Ouf posted videos on social media this week comparing January 26 celebrations to "Holocaust remembrance" and claiming supporters of the date "might start another genocide."

The comments have drawn sharp rebuke from fellow councillors and government officials.

Former Cumberland mayor Steve Christou called the Holocaust comparison "deeply offensive to both the Australian people and the Jewish population."

Ironically, just months earlier, Councillor Ouf successfully moved a motion to hand out Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and Australian flags at Council's Australia Day celebrations.

The Guardian reported on how a regional New South Wales council's decision to remove the Aboriginal flag from its chambers has sparked controversy and accusations of erasing Indigenous history.

In November, Federation Council – which includes the town of Corowa – voted five to four to exclusively fly the Australian flag on all shire flagpoles, removing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags from council chambers.

The council will only fly Indigenous flags during NAIDOC and Reconciliation weeks.

Mayor Cheryl Cook says the move aims to unite the community under "one sovereign emblem" – but traditional owners say it does the opposite.

The council will vote on the final protocol in March, after considering public submissions.

Lachlan Shire Council is mourning the tragic deaths in Lake Cargelligo last week in an incident alleged to have involved a council staff member.

Mayor John Metcalf said the incident was a “crying shame” in the close-knit town, and the council is fully cooperating with NSW Police investigations while providing community support.

The Australia Day ceremony went ahead as planned on Monday after community discussions, with a moment of reflection incorporated into the event.

Balranald Shire Council has discovered water meter tampering during recent inspections and is warning that offenders face prosecution with penalties up to $2,200.

The council said it is taking a firm enforcement approach including formal investigations and prosecutions where appropriate, while asking residents to confidentially report suspected tampering to prevent honest residents from subsidising those who unlawfully access unmeasured water.

The Snowy Monaro community is mourning the passing of Joe Vescio, who served as Snowy Monaro Regional Council's first general manager from 2016 to 2018 and dedicated nearly 15 years to the region.

Mr Vescio is remembered for his skillful leadership in amalgamating three councils and his devotion to both public service and his family. Donations are requested for Neuroblastoma Australia in his memory.

Queensland Report

From the Courier Mail:

A Queensland mayor has urged parents to reconsider taking young children to K'gari following the tragic death of 19-year-old Canadian backpacker Piper James.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour says there's been a worrying increase in dingo attacks on small children over the past four to five years, with most victims under the age of seven.

He noted that state government advice requires children to remain within arm's length of parents at all times on the island, except in fenced areas, adding that that is not a good holiday for child or parent.

Torres Shire Council has raised serious concerns about foreign fishing vessels entering Australian waters in the Torres Strait in Queensland undetected, posing risks to community safety, biosecurity, and local fisheries.

The Council is demanding urgent briefings from authorities and calling for locally led solutions to improve surveillance and interception, as residents fear for their safety and the exploitation of marine resources, despite significant taxpayer investment in border security infrastructure.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council has deployed a Disaster Management Officer to McKinlay Shire Council for 14 days to assist with recovery efforts following Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji in North West Queensland.

The deployment is part of the Council-to-Council program, with the officer providing support in disaster operations, response, planning, logistics and recovery from the Local Disaster Coordination Centre in Julia Creek.

Mr Bob Gee APM has been permanently appointed as Queensland's Cross-Border Commissioner, bringing extensive experience from his career as a police officer and Director-General in several Queensland Government departments.

His first official visit is in Goondiwindi this week to meet with local stakeholders and councillors.

In what's being called a triumph of community spirit, the town of Ingham has secured a major concert with chart-topping artist Tones and I — and it's all thanks to an extraordinary grassroots campaign.

The push began with local resident Justine Stoddart, whose simple idea sparked a community-wide movement that caught the attention of the popular musician. The response was so overwhelming that Tones and I has now confirmed she'll perform in Ingham on February 20th, with the Ingham Showgrounds being explored as the venue.

Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo praised the effort, saying it shows what makes the community truly unique. He congratulated Ms Stoddart and thanked local businesses, the Chamber of Commerce, and residents who rallied behind the campaign.

Tasmania

Burnie councillor Trent Aitken will serve a two week suspension after a conduct panel found his social media posts homophobic and racist, covering comments about transgender people, Aboriginal people, and Australia Day made between January and May 2025.

Pulse Tasmania reported that the panel ruled he breached the councillor code, but stopped short of ordering an apology due to concerns it wouldn't be genuine, instead requiring him to complete a training course.

Meanwhile, a Hobart city councillor has lost her appeal over social media posts found to have breached the local government code of conduct.

Louise Elliot was found to have harassed fellow councillor Ryan Posselt through misleading and derogatory posts that led to threats against him and his family.

The Code of Conduct Panel described some of her posts as "inflammatory, attention-grabbing, wholly unobjective and essentially childlike", and imposed a seven day suspension.

Elliot says she'll pursue matters relating to freedom of political expression in the Federal Court.

Local Government Minister Kerry Vincent says he is monitoring Hobart City Council following internal disputes, including controversies over snacks and a councillor's suspension for name-calling.

The Mercury reported that he has urged councillors to focus on serving ratepayers rather than personal conflicts.

Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds maintains the council is not dysfunctional, and is encouraging colleagues to concentrate on substantive issues rather than sensational headlines ahead of October's local government elections.

Glenorchy City Council has unanimously rejected a proposed merger with Hobart City Council, citing concerns about cost, lack of community support, and the way the proposal was presented.

One councillor described the move from Hobart as an “ambush”, while another said it had “put the community on edge.”

ABC News reported that while Glenorchy remains open to discussions about local government reform, the council’s position is that any amalgamation should be part of a coordinated, state-led process rather than an isolated merger between two councils.

Jason Browne, the shared General Manager of Kentish and Latrobe Councils since May 2024, has resigned effective 17 April 2026 due to personal circumstances requiring relocation to Hobart.

Both Councils have acknowledged his leadership in improving transparency, community engagement, and staff wellbeing, and will immediately commence recruitment for his successor.

South Australia

The mayor and a councillor from Mount Barker District Council have taken leave from the council duties to run for seat of Kavel in the South Australian election.

Mayor David Leach and Councillor Bradley Orr will be suspended from their council responsibilities after February 27, 2026, when party nominations close, with election to be held on 21 March.

Onkaparinga Council is calling on the South Australian government to intervene against a proposed plastics factory at Old Reynella, according to a report from The Advertiser.

Packaging manufacturer Techno Plas wants to convert an old wine production building into a factory, warehouse and offices.

Thousands of residents have opposed the development, citing noise, traffic and environmental concerns.

The Council has voted for the Mayor to ask the Premier and Planning Minister to investigate intervention powers.

Plastics factory proposal outcry, Advertiser, The (Adelaide, Australia), January 23, 2026, p14

Karen Turnbull has been elected as the new deputy mayor of the District Council of Grant, replacing Brad Mann.

Border Watch reported that she then chaired her first meeting item immediately after accepting the position due to the mayor having a conflict of interest. She is expected to serve in the role until council elections take place in November 2026.

Western Australia

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder has endorsed a Memorandum of Understanding with the local chamber of commerce and industry to collaboratively revitalise the city's central business districts.

The agreement establishes a framework for coordinated planning and activation initiatives through to 2028.

Northern Territory

Over 800 people have signed a petition calling for Alice Springs Mayor Asta Hill to resign after she refused to participate in the council's Australia Day citizenship ceremony.

Cr Hill said her refusal to officiate the ceremony was due to her belief that January 26 is a day of mourning that causes harm to parts of the community.

Petitioners allege that Ms Hill's decision shows a lack of respect for her mayoral duties and the symbolic importance of the ceremony.

The petition will be tabled at the next council meeting if it reaches 1000 signatures.

Inside Local Government has reported on the appointment of Peter Harder as the new CEO of Barkly Regional Council, bringing over 20 years of senior executive experience to lead the organisation forward.

In a statement, Mayor Sid Vashist addressed decade-old online commentary about Mr Harder, affirming his commitment to inclusivity and expressing full confidence in his integrity and leadership abilities.

AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS:

Former Darwin Lord Mayor Cecil Black is a Member for the Order of Australia (AM) for significant services to local government and the community. Black served as Mayor of Darwin between 1980 and 1984, and Deputy Mayor between 1975 and 1980.

Ian Campbell was awarded an AM for services to the Parliament of Western Australia. A former WA Senator, Campbell was also Cabinet Minister, and Minister for Local Government, Roads, Environment, and Human Services.

Former Mayor of Yarra Ranges Council in Victoria James Child received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for services to local government. Child served as mayor for four terms, most recently in 2024/25.

Former Mayor of Bayside Council Alexander del Porto also received an OAM for services to local government in Victoria.

Bruce Green picked up an OAM for services to local government. Green is a former Mayor of the City of Port Lincoln in SA.

Former Mayor of Kyogle Danielle Mulholland was given an OAM for services to local government in the Northern Rivers region of NSW. Mulholland served as mayor between 2013-21 and since 2024. She’s been a councillor since 2012.

Ann Potter – former Mayor of Hume City Council in Victoria – received an OAM for services to local government and the community. Potter was mayor between 2002-2003, and deputy mayor for two terms – 2005-06 and 2016-17.

Lee-Anne Watts – former Mayor of Upper Hunter Shire Council in NSW also received an OAM for services to local government and community. Watts served as mayor from 2010-12 and deputy mayor 2008-09.

Public Service Medal for outstanding public service to David Sherley for services to local government; he was general manager at Bathurst Regional Council for more than 25 years.

An OAM for Cr Cuc Lam, who has served the Maribyrnong community across four terms as a Councillor, including two terms as Mayor (2017–2018 and 2023–2024). First elected in 2000 and returning in 2016.

Dr Gillian Miles, currently the Commissioner on Infrastructure Australia and a one-time chief executive of City of Greater Geelong, honoured with an AM for significant service to the transport and infrastructure sectors.

Gunnedah Shire's Mayor Colleen Fuller has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia - for service to the community through a range of organisations.

Global Report

UK:

About 250 councillors across 29 English councils will have their terms extended to seven years following the postponement of local elections until 2028, due to a major reorganisation of local government that aims to abolish the outdated two-tier system.

BBC News reported on criticism of the delays from the Electoral Commission, which argues that scheduled elections should go ahead as planned except in exceptional circumstances.

The government maintains that the postponements are necessary to enable once-in-a-generation reforms that will create stronger local councils and reduce bureaucratic duplication.

Stoke-on-Trent has declared the UK's first heritage emergency, launching a ten-year plan that requires £325 million in public and private investment to save its deteriorating historic buildings from being lost forever.

The city's prospectus warns that urgent action is needed to protect its significant heritage sites, framing this as a national challenge rather than just a local one.

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils have left the social media platform X due to concerns about its AI tool Grok, which can generate fake sexualised content involving real people.

Local gov dot co dot uk reported that both councils have criticised the platform's slow and inadequate response to the concerns, and will continue communicating with residents through alternative channels including Facebook, Instagram, and their websites.

USA:

A top city official is leaving his position at an Arizona city following controversy over his use of a fake Facebook account.

Benson Deputy City Manager Jay Howe will finish up on February 2nd, after he used a profile under another name to defend a controversial aluminum recycling centre planned for the city.

In his posts, Howe called critics "morons" and "idiots."

The Herald Review reported that city officials discovered the Facebook activity while Howe was on a paid leave of absence in October.

In New York state, the Rochester City Council has unanimously voted to rescind a previously approved 25% salary increase ($50,000 per year) following public concern about the raise.

The decision was made after swearing in new council members and came just weeks after the original December 16 vote to approve the increase.

CANADA:

The City of Winnipeg is considering cancelling its $30,000 annual membership with a Texas-based free-trade organisation and stopping funding for councillors' business trips to the United States.

CTV News reports that a motion responding to President Trump's tariffs on Canadian goods and his comments about making Canada the 51st state, will go before the city council this week.

In his motion, the proposing councillor, Russ Wyatt, said the city has been completely out of step with the Canadian people, who have opted out of personal and business travel to the US.

NZ:

Former Dunedin mayor Jules Radich has been remembered as a passionate community leader who always put his city first.

RNZ reported that Radich, who died earlier this month while serving his second term as a councillor, was honoured at a special Dunedin City Council meeting on Monday.

Current mayor Sophie Barker described him as someone who "had the city in his heart" and was loved for his balance, consensus-building, and good humour.

Council chief executive Sandy Graham fondly remembered discussing his many ideas and passions, from Japanese art to tackling erosion at St Clair beach.

A by-election for the vacant seat will be held in May.