Council Member Conduct Framework, Establishment Costs

In reply to Mr TELFER (Flinders) ((20 June 2022).). (Estimates Committee A)

The Hon. G.G. BROCK (Stuart—Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Roads, Minister for Veterans Affairs): I have been advised:

As required by the Local Government Act 1999, all costs associated with the establishment and operation of the Behaviour Standards Panel (the panel) are met by the Local Government Association (LGA).

I am advised that the LGA is working closely with the Office of Local Government (OLG) on the establishment of the panel and receives regular updates on costs incurred. Those costs to date primarily reflect the cost of the three panel members' time. The presiding member is reimbursed at a rate of $64.50 per hour and the two other members are reimbursed at a rate of $51.50.

The panel is currently meeting monthly to prepare for the formal commencement of its functions in November this year. To date, four establishment meetings have been held, at a cost of $2,769. This cost reflects the members' time in preparing for and attending these meetings.

I am advised that there are a further four establishment meetings scheduled before November, and that it is anticipated that the costs for these remaining meetings will be similar to those held to date.

Other costs for the panel establishment may include costs incurred for legal advice and administrative tasks that must be undertaken to ensure its proper operation upon its formal commencement. As stated above, the LGA is closely involved with all of these tasks and will therefore be fully aware of costs incurred and the reasons for them.

As the panel's formal functions have yet to commence, it is difficult to estimate the costs of its ongoing operations accurately, also noting that these costs will largely depend on the number of complaints it receives.