Australian local councils face transparency and conduct scrutiny

The Hills Shire Council has rejected a proposal to increase transparency regarding interactions with lobbyists and property developers. The motion, introduced by Labor and Greens councillors, sought to implement an open diary policy and an online lobbying register. The rejection comes as the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) conducts its Operation Rosny inquiry into the council’s conduct.

In a separate development, the City of Sydney has unveiled designs for a $150 million Town Hall Square in the central business district. The project, intended to boost the visitor economy, features a 4,200-square-metre plaza with native Australian trees and water elements. Demolition of existing buildings is scheduled for 2028, with completion expected by 2031.

Meanwhile, the Redland City Council in Queensland has submitted a recommendation to a parliamentary inquiry suggesting that councillors on extended medical leave should be subject to misconduct investigations. This follows a period of high complaint volumes regarding councillor conduct in the region.