Personal Interest Returns

Local Government Act 2020 Requirements

Sections 126–136 of the Local Government Act 2020 (the Act) set out requirements for managing conflicts of interest and submitting Personal Interests Returns. These provisions are closely linked to other sections of the Act, including:

  • Section 60 – Governance Rules
  • Sections 132–136 – Personal Interests Returns
  • Sections 137–138 – Gifts

The Act uses the term “relevant person” (Section 126(1)) to identify individuals who must determine and disclose conflicts of interest. This includes:

  • Councillors
  • Members of Council staff
  • External members of delegated committees

These requirements ensure transparency, accountability, and integrity in local government decision-making. They help maintain public trust by preventing conflicts of interest and ensuring that relevant persons disclose personal interests in a timely and consistent manner.

Personal Interests Returns

Personal Interests Returns are a mandatory requirement under Division 3 of Part 6 (sections 132–136) of the Act. These returns are designed to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability by ensuring that individuals in positions of influence disclose their personal interests.

The Local Government (Governance and Integrity) Regulations 2020 specify the detailed information that must be included in each return, such as:

  • Property ownership and interests
  • Shareholdings and investments
  • Positions in corporations or associations
  • Gifts and hospitality received
  • Other financial or non-financial interests that could reasonably be perceived to influence decision-making
 

Initial Personal Interests Return (Section 133)

  • Councillors: Must submit an initial return within 30 days of taking the oath or affirmation.
  • Council Staff: The CEO determines which staff are required to submit based on statutory or delegated powers. Staff have 30 days from notification to lodge their return.
  • Delegated Committee Members: Must submit an initial return within 30 days of appointment.

Biannual Personal Interests Return (Section 134)

  • Required twice yearly:
    • 1 March – 31 March
    • 1 September – 30 September
  • Applies to any person who has previously submitted an initial return and continues to be a specified person.
  • Must update any changes since the last return.
  • Covers the preceding six-month period.

Personal Interests Return Registers

You can access the Initial and Biannual Personal Interests Return Registers below.

 

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