New Conduct Code for Shire Councillors

Surf Coast Shire Council has adopted a Councillor Code of Conduct 2021 to implement requirements of the new Local Government Act.

The Code is designed to assist Councillors:

• in maintaining the highest standards of conduct and behaviour
• to discharge the responsibilities of their public office appropriately
• to maintain good working relationships between Councillors, and between Councillors and staff
• to resolve differences between Councillors directly where possible to avoid unnecessary cost and disruption

The code was developed in January and February 2021 and incorporates values and behaviours developed by Councillors to reflect their commitment to a high standard of conduct.

Deputy Mayor Cr Liz Pattison moved the motion to adopt the Code stating that it was informed by best practice examples provided by Local Government Victoria.

Goodwill and collaboration exists already within Council but making a public commitment to a standard of conduct and the behaviours we expect is a way to embed these values in an enduring and accountable way, a Council spokeswoman said.

– Media Release