A major review into the conduct of council members across South Australia’s local governments is being conducted by Flinders University.
Developed by the Local Government Association of South Australia with the support of Equal Opportunity SA, the independent review is examining governance protocols within the state’s 68 councils.
As well as governance practices, the review will undertake an assessment of the behavioural issues present in the local government sector, identifying what works and what can be done to neutralise toxic environments.
While acknowledging that most council members carry themselves with integrity, respect and professionalism, LGASA President Heather Holmes-Ross said “there are some disruptors within councils who behave poorly and below the standards expected of them.”
Holmes-Ross said communities expect council chambers to be respectful, inclusive and professional spaces. “This review is an important undertaking to help ensure these standards are being met.”
The Local Government Leadership and Behaviour Review – conducted through a survey and in-person interviews – will seek the perspectives and views of former and current council members who have served during the current term, along with CEOs and relevant staff to ensure a comprehensive understanding of leadership and culture across the sector.
“The independent review will look at the civil and collaborative working cultures that exist in councils and recommend how we can devise better ways and implement stronger processes to manage behavioural challenges when they arise,” Holmes-Ross said.
Local Government Minister Joe Szakacs welcomed the review. “South Australians rightfully expect their council mayors and elected members to be working constructively and collaboratively to deliver in their best interests,” he said. “When mayors and councillors behave poorly, it’s not only frustrating for residents and ratepayers, but also for the vast majority of elected members who are working for the good of their communities each and every day.”
The review will provide the sector “with an opportunity to ensure all councils are meeting community expectations on behaviour and conduct,” Szakacs said.
There are some disruptors within councils.
Equal Opportunity SA Commissioner Jodeen Carney said the initiative offers a chance “to listen, learn and contribute to building a stronger, more respectful culture across the local government sector.”
Research lead Dr Valerie O’Keeffe said the review aims “to understand the nature of behaviours commonly experienced in the council’s elected body, identify the factors that drive these behaviours and develop strategies to foster active leadership and effective teamwork.”
“The need for strong leadership, co-operation and respectful interactions has never been greater to keep on delivering strongly for communities,” she added.
Holmes-Ross hopes the review will drive cultural change “that strengthens trust in local government and supports council members to be effective leaders for their communities.”
A final report outlining the review’s recommendations is expected to be published in December.
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