Public Transparency
Public transparency refers to the practice of government and other public entities acting openly and honestly, making information freely available to the public, and ensuring that decisions are made in a way that is understandable and accessible.
It emphasises accountability and allows citizens to understand how their government operates and to hold it accountable for its actions.
Public Transparency Policy
Public Transparency Policy
In accordance with Section 57 of the Local Government Act 2020, it is mandatory for a Council to adopt and uphold a Public Transparency Policy.
This policy gives effect to the Public Transparency Principles outlined in section 58 of the Local Government Act 2020 (the Act) and as outlined below;
Public Transparency Principles
a) Council decision making processes must be transparent except when the Council is dealing with information that is confidential by virtue of this Act or any other Act;
b) Council information must be publicly available unless;
(i) the information is confidential by virtue of this Act or any other Act; or
(ii) public availability of the information would be contrary to the public interest;
c) Council information must be understandable and accessible to members of the municipal community;
d) Public awareness of the availability of Council information must be facilitated.
To access the Council's Public Transparency Policy, please visit the Policies and Publications webpage on this site or click the button below.
Conflicts of Interest (including Register)
Conflicts of Interest
A conflict of interest exists when someone is in a position to derive personal benefit from actions or decisions made whilst performing their professional duties.
Section 127 and 138 of the Local Government Act 2020 identifies two categories of conflicts of interest:
- General conflict — A relevant person has a general conflict of interest in a matter if an impartial, fair minded person would consider that the person’s private interest could result in them acting in a manner contrary to their public duty.
- Material conflict — A relevant person has a material conflict of interest in respect of a matter if an affected person would gain a benefit or suffer a loss depending on the outcome of the matter.
Under section 130 of the Local Government Act 2020, Councillors are required to disclose conflicts of interests with respect of a matter to be considered at a Council meeting. Councillors are to exclude themselves from the decision making process, including discussions and voting, in relation to that matter.
Conflicts of Interest Register
As specified in Section 4.1 of the Council's Public Transparency Policy, the Council will, at a minimum, publish on its website any Conflicts of Interest disclosed by Councillors or Council Staff.
Interstate Travel (including Register)
Interstate Travel
Interstate travel refers to the movement between different states within Australia. It can involve various modes of transportation, including air travel, road travel, and train travel.
Interstate Travel Register
As specified in Section 4.1 of the Council's Public Transparency Policy, the Council will, at a minimum, publish on its website any interstate travel undertaken by Councillors or Council Staff.