A budget crisis, bill shock and a surprise cat curfew – #622

Today on the Local Government News Roundup: Listen now: Victoria An independent arbiter has found Ballarat City Councillor Damon Saunders engaged in misconduct, after he publicly disclosed Cr Tracy Hargreaves’ mayoral nomination during a live radio interview last November. The finding, tabled at the Council’s meeting last week and published to the Council’s website, saw […]

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Suspension stayed, unrelenting personal attacks, and a desperate attempt at deflection – #621

Today on the Local Government News Roundup: Listen to this episode: Victoria The Victorian Government is reportedly considering overhauling the state’s local government rate cap framework. The Herald Sun reported Friday that Local Government Minister Paul Hamer is considering a major carve-out for council wages, allowing local governments to pass staff pay rises directly onto […]

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Unnecessary political pontificating, a costly payroll error, and e-bikes out – #617

Today on the Local Government News Roundup: Also today, National Growth Areas Alliance CEO Bronwen Clark talks to Chris about why the time is right for an emerging growth areas forum. Listen now: Victoria Hepburn Shire Council has confirmed that its adopted 2026/27 Budget complies with legislative requirements, backed by independent legal advice following compliance […]

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Hepburn crisis deepens, green wedge alarm, and demeaning conduct warning – #615

Today on the Local Government News Roundup: Listen to this episode now: Victoria Hepburn Shire Council Mayor, Cr Tony Clark, has been automatically stood down after being served with alleged criminal charges in a private prosecution. The Council says the matter has not involved an investigation by Victoria Police or any public prosecutorial authority – […]

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