As a result of the significant coronavirus financial impacts on the Monash community, Council has determined that there will not be an increase to Mayoral and Councillor allowances during the 2020/21 financial year and until such time as Council resolves otherwise.
Under the Local Government Act a Mayor and Councillors are entitled to receive an allowance from the Council. Allowances are reviewed annually.
At its 26 May meeting, Council determined that it would decline any increase set by the government as a gesture of support for the Monash community.
Monash Mayor Stuart James, who put forward the Notice of Motion, said the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Monash community is severe, with the long-term impacts still to be determined.
“Monash is home to many university students who are significantly impacted by this pandemic. We have a high number of medical staff, including nurses, who live and work in the area and are on the frontline of this pandemic,” Cr James said.
“Monash is the second largest employer outside the CBD and has a thriving restaurant and café culture. We know our many wonderful businesses are struggling at this time.
“We have been there for our community in many ways, offering hardship relief and critical help with other services and support as they have been needed. This is another way to demonstrate that we understand the difficult circumstances people are in and we believe it is appropriate we decline any increase on our allowance at this time.”
Council’s Executive Leadership Team and Managers have also forgone any wage increases for the 2020/21 financial year.
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