THE state’s councillor complaints system will come under the microscope, with a parliamentary committee to investigate whether the current framework is fair, efficient and effective.
The Queensland Legislative Assembly agreed on June 4 to establish an inquiry into the operation of the councillor conduct framework, including the roles of the Office of the Independent Assessor and the Councillor Conduct Tribunal.
The inquiry will examine how complaints about councillor conduct are handled, whether cases are being dealt with in a timely way, and whether the tribunal has adequate resourcing.
It will also consider whether alternative models are needed for the Office of the Independent Assessor, including a stronger focus on training, integrity advice and consistent support for councillors.
A key issue will be whether councillors and complainants have adequate rights to challenge tribunal decisions, and whether review processes are too costly or slow.
The inquiry follows ongoing concerns across local government about lengthy investigations, procedural fairness and whether the existing system is improving behaviour or adding unnecessary bureaucracy.
The committee will also consider whether changes are needed to the Local Government Act 2009 or to the functions of the assessor and tribunal.
Submissions are open to councils, councillors, organisations and members of the public until 12pm on Friday, July 10.
A public briefing and public hearing are scheduled for Wednesday, August 26, with the committee required to report back to Parliament by November 6.
Submissions may be published on the inquiry webpage, although submitters can request confidentiality.
