City of Perth Council Faces Fresh Inquiry Amid Fears of Dysfunction

A fresh inquiry into the City of Perth council has been launched by Local Government Inspector Tony Brown, amid concerns over the council's persistent dysfunction. The move may pave the way for more drastic action, including the potential suspension or dismissal of certain councillors or even the entire council.

Problematic history

The City of Perth council has a history of scandal and controversy, including a 2018 collapse that led to a $7.2 million two-year inquiry. The inquiry found that the city's culture had become dominated by self-interest, complacency, and a lack of accountability and transparency.

Former Perth Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi was criticized for a range of issues, including undeclared gifts and travel, and serious breaches of local government laws. The council itself was described as "dysfunctional" and plagued by poor governance.

Paving the way for more action

Local Government Inspector Tony Brown has ordered a three-month inquiry into the council, which will examine its culture and governance. The probe is necessary to enable him to activate tools for more serious action, including recommending suspensions or dismissals.

"I too have been incredibly frustrated with what I've seen at the City of Perth and I'm pretty over it," Local Government Minister Hannah Beazley said.

Acting Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds has welcomed the inquiry, saying it provides an opportunity for matters to be "independently examined".

'No evidence' of dysfunction

Not everyone agrees that the council is dysfunctional. WALGA President Mark Irwin told reporters, "There is still no evidence [of dysfunction at The City of Perth] … that's not for me to judge, that's for the community to judge."

Mr. Irwin also criticized the state government for its role in painting the local government sector in an unflattering light.

Next steps

The next three months will be crucial in determining the fate of the City of Perth council. Can the council rebuild and stabilize, or will an extraordinary collapse be the only path forward? The inspector will be the only judge of that.

Mr. Brown has indicated that he will send a monitor to work with the council, and is willing to work with the City of Perth to address its issues.