Monitors reinstalled to Council

JUST months after the conclusion of their initial term, the Victorian government has reappointed municipal monitors to Geelong City Council, extending oversight until December 2024.

Following recommendations from Local Government Victoria and the Chief Municipal Inspector, Peter Dorling and Prue Digby initially took up roles as council monitors from January 2023.

Their mission included supervising the selection of a new chief executive officer for the council, ensuring the process upheld the highest standards of integrity and transparency.

Despite their efforts, Local Government Minister Melissa Horne said there was more work to be done.

“Their report shows that work still needs to be done to improve governance practices at the council, and the appointment of Mr Dorling and Mr Davies as municipal monitors will support that work.”

To continue the work started by Dorling and Digby, Horne has appointed Dorling once again, alongside Mark Davies, to guide the council through its next phases of governance refinement, particularly in the lead-up to and following the mayoral elections in October 2024.

Mayor Trent Sullivan said he welcomed the opportunity to continue working with Mr Dorling and newly appointed monitor Mr Mark Davies.

“Council is committed to working collaboratively whilst representing our communities,” Mr Sullivan said.

The state government is currently developing legislation aimed at enhancing governance standards and integrity across Victoria’s 79 councils.

This includes mandatory training for elected representatives, a standardised code of conduct, and strengthened powers for the Minister in managing councillor conduct.