The Andrews Labor Government has appointed a municipal monitor to the Strathbogie Shire Council to ensure good governance is maintained by the council.
Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne today announced Peter Stephenson has been appointed as municipal monitor until 15 August 2023, under the authority of the Local Government Act.
The appointment has been made in response to concerns around governance and health and safety of councillors and staff. The monitor will examine why the Council has been unable to resolve issues identified by the previous monitor, Janet Dore, over a 12-month appointment made at the request of the Council.
Mr Stephenson will use his time over the next three months to assess the council’s ability to best serve the community and will report to the Minister for Local Government on any further action needed.
Mr Stephenson brings extensive experience and expertise to the role, having previously been appointed municipal monitor for Wangaratta and South Gippsland and served as mayor and a councillor at Darebin City Council.
The Labor Government continues to support and improve council accountability, governance and culture across the state through initiatives such as the Local Government Culture Project and the Women Leading Locallyprogram.
For more information, visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au/council-governance.
As stated by Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne
“I thank Mr Stephenson for accepting this important role and know he will bring great insight and expertise to his work with the Strathbogie Shire Council.”
“Municipal monitors have proven to be effective at guiding councils to make improvements in governance that help them better serve their communities.”
