Tuesday 19 November 2024
Local council monitors, appointed to act as the last line of defence against poor governance, earn $1335 per day – plus expenses.
The wages bill is footed by ratepayers in an era where councils are already cash-strapped and fearing for their sustainability.
The admission came from the Department of Government Services, which fronted Parliament’s Public Estimates and Accounts Committee.
The Department said councils are required to meet the “renumeration and expenses” of monitors, who are becoming increasingly common across the state.
Shadow Minister for Local Government, Peter Walsh, said local council monitors had become “a growth industry built on poor governance and mistrust.”
“There have been more than 25 local council monitor appointments since 2020. Monitors on top of the usual administrative costs has become an expensive exercise for ratepayers,” Mr Walsh said.
The Allan Labor Government recently revealed the names of five new monitors to watch over Strathbogie, Whittlesea and Casey councils.
Monitors attend meetings and observe briefings, keeping an eye on governance.
Despite a raft of new councillors being sworn in, the councils will continue to operate under the watchful eye of monitors.
Just weeks ago, the Allan Labor Government introduced mandatory training for all councillors.
“Clearly, Labor has no faith in that training, as it has opted for direct state-control,” Mr Walsh said.
“Labor can’t manage money and ratepayers are paying the price.”
Media contact: Dominic McDermott 0448 163 006 dominic.mcdermott@opposition.vic.gov.au