Conclusion of investigation of Hepburn Shire Council

In 2019, the LGI received a complaint that made allegations relating to the Hepburn Shire Council's involvement with the Rex Theatre development.

Published:
Monday 2 September 2024 at 10:23 pm

Local Government Inspectorate - Conclusion of investigation of Hepburn Shire Council

  1. The Local Government Inspectorate (LGI) is the dedicated integrity agency for local government in Victoria. The Chief Municipal Inspector (CMI) leads the LGI and has functions and powers, including those set out in the Local Government Act 2020, to enable the LGI to examine, investigate and prosecute any matter relating to a Council's operations and any potential breaches of the 2020 Act and its predecessor the Local Government Act 1989 (1989 Act).
  2. In 2019, the LGI received a complaint that made allegations relating to the Hepburn Shire Council's involvement with the Rex Theatre redevelopment.
  3. Since receipt of the complaint, the LGI has undertaken a rigorous investigation of the allegations. Throughout, Hepburn Shire Council and its Councillors have co‑operated.
  4. The LGI's investigation has now been finalised and the CMI has concluded that there is insufficient evidence to prove to the requisite standard of proof the commission of any disciplinary breaches or criminal offences contrary to the 1989 Act. Further, the CMI is satisfied that the Council has taken remedial action to put in place measures to avoid future complaints of a similar nature, including the creation of a new governance and policy framework.
  5. Accordingly, the LGI will not be taking any further action in respect of the investigation. Nor will the LGI be publishing any report.

  6. More information about the LGI can be found at:

    6. 1 LGI's website https://www.lgi.vic.gov.au;

    6. 2 The Local Government Act 2020 Governance Resources https://www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au/council-governance/how-we-regulate-councils;

    6.3 The relevant legislation, by searching https://www.legislation.vic.gov.au; and

    6.4 The Municipal Association of Victoria's website https://www.mav.asn.au/what-we-do/procurement/resources-hub/for-councils. General inquiries may be made to (03) 9667 5555.

    Should you wish to discuss the issues raised in this media release, please contact:
    Local Government Inspectorate
    Level 27, 1 Spring Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000
    1800 469 359
    inspectorate@lgi.vic.gov.au

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