Comment on Local Government Culture

Published on 06 January 2022

Northern Grampians Shire Council is inviting the community to comment on a Local Government Culture Discussion Paper. The discussion paper is part of a Local Government Culture Project coordinated by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) on behalf of the Victorian Government.

The Discussion Paper comprises 12 questions grouped into three themes:

• Leadership experience and capability
• Councillor journey
• Early intervention and dispute resolution

The paper aims to elicit ideas on how to improve culture and conduct within the local government sector.

Northern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Cr Tony Driscoll sees the discussion paper as an excellent starting point for the community to consider whether councils are functioning according to residents’ expectations.

“This Discussion Paper on Local Government Culture is available to everyone in our shire for comment,” Cr Driscoll stated.

“We actively encourage you to read the paper and write to the State Government by the end of next month so it can determine if further amendments need to be made to the Local Government Act or if further training and support is required to bring us up to a level that meets your expectations.

“Your suggestions could improve the way your councillors lead, behave and interact with the community or are held accountable if they misbehave, ultimately resulting in a better local government experience for you and your shire.”

More information about the Local Government Culture Project is available at www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au/council-governance/local-government-culture-project The paper is available to read online on Council’s Have Your Say website page www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/LGCulture or may be requested as a paper copy by contacting customer service on 03 5358 8700. Written responses to the Discussion Paper are due by 5pm 28 February 2022.