- Published:
- Wednesday 11 December 2024
Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne has extended the appointment of municipal monitors at Brimbank City Council for a further six months to continue supporting the council to improve its governance practices.
Monitors, Janet Dore and Penelope Holloway were initially appointed for a 10-month period, from 13 February 2024 to 31 December 2024. Their appointment has now been extended until 30 June 2025.
The interim report notes that while Brimbank has made progress in improving its governance structures, work is still required to support the council. The council will benefit from ongoing support through the induction period, including Council Plan and Budget processes to solidify good governance measures at the council for the new term.
In response to this advice, Minister Horne has extended the appointment of both monitors. Municipal monitors are appointed to councils to advise on necessary governance improvements and report back to the Minister, under section 179 of the Local Government Act 2020.
The terms of reference for the monitors direct them to advise and provide any relevant assistance and support to the council in relation to the improvement of its governance processes and practices.
The Allan Labor Government has passed reforms to the Local Government Act 2020 to improve culture, governance and integrity standards in Victoria’s councils.
The reforms have introduced mandatory training for elected representatives, a uniform councillor code of conduct and strengthened powers for the Minister to address councillor conduct.
The terms of reference for the Brimbank City Council monitors are available at: https://www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au/council-governance/independent-r…
Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne
"I thank Ms Dore and Ms Holloway for their ongoing work as monitors to Brimbank City Council. They will continue to support the newly elected council following the council elections in October."
“Municipal monitors have proven to be effective at guiding councils to make governance improvements that help them better serve their communities.”