Special Committees, how many do you have?

After conducting compliance audits at more than 40 of Victoria’s 79 local councils, the Inspectorate has discovered that the management of special committees is a common area requiring improvement across the local government sector with some councils unsure of just how many they actually have.

“We have seen examples of councils with over 40 special committees and others with none, which has highlighted the vast differences in the way councils use special committees,” said Inspector of Municipal Administration Patti Thyssen.

Under section 86 of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act), a council may establish one or more special committees of councillors, council staff, other persons or any combination of these.

When a council delegates powers, functions or duties to a special committee, it hands over the power to make decisions on behalf of (or acting in place of) the council itself. This is why the Act subjects special committees to the same statutory procedures and conduct as the council.

The requirements

Sections 81, 86, 87 and 98 of the Act outline the requirements council must adhere to when establishing and maintaining special committees. A comprehensive list of the special committee issues is covered in our latest information bulletin.

The good news

Wellington Shire Council in South Eastern Victoria was recently audited by the Inspectorate and provided an excellent example of an effective way of managing special committees.

“A key role of the Inspectorate is to promote examples of best practice to the local government sector so we can encourage a voluntary compliance culture and good governance; Wellington is one of those great examples,” said Miss Thyssen.

Wellington Shire Council acting CEO, Paul Holton, said his council strives for best practice processes and was pleased with the Inspectorate’s feedback.

“We take our responsibilities around special committees seriously and want to make sure that we meet all statutory requirements, as well as use best practice processes,” said Mr Holton.

“We were pleased that the Inspectorate’s audit confirmed that our practices are effective and we are doing the right thing,” he said.

The fix

If you haven’t done so recently, now is the time to conduct an internal review of your council’s special committees. Read our latest information bulletin to find out more, including tips straight from Wellington.

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