A WIDE-ranging review of cultural issues in Victorian councils, backed by the State Government, will aim to strengthen integrity and trust in local government.
Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane said the government would commission a review and discussion paper to start a conversation about behaviour and culture on councils.
The discussion paper will look into the history of the culture in local government and ways to promote a more positive and inclusive work environment, ensure fairer and more equal representation of community views and build public trust.
The review will also consider ways to make local government a more welcoming and safe environment for women, following a Victorian Auditor-General’s Office report that found more than one in four councillors and council staff had experienced sexual harassment in the past 12 months.
“The vast majority of councils and councillors do a fantastic job for their communities, but there have been examples of poor behaviour and bad governance in recent times – not just in Victoria but across the country,” Mr Leane said.
“I strongly believe that by working together we can improve the culture overall. Our goal should be to put out a clear message that, as a sector, we won’t accept poor behaviour.”
The review will be undertaken by a research institute, academic or person with appropriate skills and experience from the sector, and a discussion paper will be published for feedback.
A series of workshops with the local government sector will follow, with the final report due to be published in the last quarter of this year.
