The Queensland Government has announced it will review the system used to manage complaints about mayors and councillors.
The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) has welcomed the decision from the Palaszczuk Government.
LGAQ chief executive Greg Hallam said recent local government elections were marred by a high level of smear against candidates – evidence the current complaints process needs to be fixed.
He said the decision followed requests for a review by both the LGAQ and the Local Government Managers’ Association.
“We want the process tightened so it can’t be used as a political tool and that is why this review is welcome,’’ Mr Hallam said.
“At the moment, there are some complaints that go to the Remuneration and Discipline Tribunal, some that are dealt with by the councils themselves and still others handled by the local government department.
“Trying to decide who has the remit can be difficult.
“As Deputy Premier Jackie Trad has said, it is important that there is a fair, modern and transparent system for dealing with complaints against councillors.’’
Mr Hallam said it was pleasing that former LGAQ president and Noosa mayor Noel Playford and former Logan City chief executive Gary Kellar would help conduct the review.
