- Published:
- Sunday 28 July 2024
Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne has extended the appointment of municipal monitors at Moonee Valley Council for a further seven months to continue supporting the council to improve its governance practices.
Monitors Prue Digby and Phillip Carruthers were initially appointed to act as monitors for a six-month period, from 29 January to 29 July 2024. Their appointment has now been extended until 28 February 2025.
The report notes that while the Council has made progress in improving its governance practices, work is still required to support good governance while IBAC investigations are ongoing and to ensure stability during the October 2024 elections.
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.
During their extension, the monitors will support the council to improve its councillor induction program and strengthen relationships between councillors. They will also work with the council to support its processes and practices relating to CEO recruitment and employment.
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 introduce mandatory training for elected representatives, a uniform councillor code of conduct and strengthened powers for the Minister to address councillor conduct.
Further information about these reforms and the terms of reference for the municipal monitor are available at localgovernment.vic.gov.au/council-governance.
Quote attributable to Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne
“I thank Ms Digby and Mr Carruthers for their ongoing work as monitors to Moonee Valley City Council. They will continue to support the council in the lead up to and following the council elections in October.”