Councillor update from Cr Hayley Weller 

Strengthening good governance is one of the core strategic directions in our Council Plan 2025–29. We have committed to being an open, transparent, accountable and responsible Council – one that is well governed, efficient and financially sustainable. These principles guide every decision we make, and they sit at the heart of the reforms progressing through the Victorian Parliament. The Local Government Legislation Amendment (Stronger Communities) Bill 2026 is expected to pass both houses in the coming months. The Bill introduces amendments to the Local Government Act 2020 designed to reinforce governance, integrity and Councillor conduct across the sector These reforms respond to issues identified through independent inquiries, and they reflect a clear expectation that councils operate with consistency, fairness and strong ethical foundations.

A key element of the Bill is the introduction of Model Governance Rules. Councils will be required to adopt these rules or incorporate them into their existing frameworks, creating greater alignment and clarity across Victoria. The Bill also proposes new requirements for how certain meetings are chaired, particularly when matters relate to the conduct of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor or another Councillor. This aims to ensure that matters are handled with independence and transparency.

Conflict of interest provisions will be strengthened to make clear that obligations extend beyond the formal Council meeting environment. Under the proposed changes, a Councillor with a conflict will be restricted from directing, influencing or discussing the matter with anyone involved in the decision-making process. This reinforces the importance of impartiality at every stage of decision making. The Bill also updates internal dispute and Councillor conduct processes. Importantly, it allows the Minister for Local Government to request that a council attempt to resolve an internal issue before external intervention is considered. Additional provisions relate to CEO employment governance and compliance with the proposed Local Government Fair Jobs Code.

If passed, these reforms will require councils to revisit their governance settings and ensure that Councillors, CEOs and governance staff fully understand the new obligations. This is an opportunity to strengthen trust, reinforce integrity and support the high standards our community expects.