I have received the report from the Commission of Inquiry into Moira Shire Council and it has been tabled in Parliament today.
I acknowledge the comprehensive work completed by the Commissioners, Frances O’Brien KC and John Tanner AM.
The findings of the report are deeply concerning. Councils must properly represent the communities they serve, and Moira residents deserve to have a council that puts their interests first.
I have accepted the Commission’s recommendation to dismiss the Council and appoint an interim Administrator. The Government has introduced legislation into Parliament today to allow this to happen.
The interim Administrator will be appointed for a period of three months.
An ongoing panel of Administrators will follow this interim appointment and will be charged with addressing the serious issues identified in the report so that elections can be held at Moira Shire in 2028.
I am confident that Administrators will restore good governance to Moira Shire Council and provide a foundation for building effective leadership, project delivery, community engagement and a positive culture within Council.
Reviewed 07 March 2023