The Inspectorate recently published a report detailing findings following an investigation into Yarriambiack Shire Council. The investigation related to specific allegations around council asset and resource use and broader governance arrangements for council operations.
The Inspectorate found:
- a council that had not kept pace with the requirements and expectations of councils as a contemporary organisation and management at the time were complacent
- policies and rigour around community assets and resources were insufficient and the management were complacent
- many of the issues found in this investigation had the potential for a negative impact on ratepayers and residents of the shire
There were significant improvements noted in recent months but there were many facets of this investigation that provide learnings for other councils.
Chief Municipal Inspector David Wolf said: “Our work focused on specific allegations where community assets and resources had either not been properly managed or were used to the benefit of individuals, not the community as a whole."
“Our investigation has presented challenges for Yarriambiack Shire Council but we have been encouraged by the willingness to improve and the assistance from administrative and operational staff. This report is a great guide for all council depots and public sector organisations, especially those with remote or autonomous operations."
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