Northern Midlands Council Releases Governance Review
Posted on May 23, 2025
Northern Midlands Council on Monday 19 May resolved to release the full report of the Independent Review of Governance and Meeting Procedures.
Northern Midlands Mayor Mary Knowles said the report made 30 recommendations in relation to a range of matters including, general governance, meeting procedure, workplace culture and matters of workplace health and safety.
“Council has adopted a timetable to monitor the implementation of the recommendations and a summary of the action taken to date was also presented to the closed Council meeting on Monday,” she said.
In June last year Northern Midlands Council convened a Special Meeting with the Acting Director of Local Government to address ongoing tensions between elected councillors and executive staff, with a focus on improving governance and fostering a more collaborative working environment.
During the meeting, a motion was passed authorising the Mayor to engage with the Acting Director to appoint an independent advisor to conduct a review of the Council’s governance practices and meeting procedures. As a result, Mr Andrew Paul was appointed in late June 2024 as the Independent Advisor.
Mr Paul delivered his report to Council in August 2024. His findings included a series of recommendations aimed at aligning Council operations with best-practice governance standards. Importantly, the report did not identify any material non-compliance with the Council’s legislative obligations, affirming the organisation’s adherence to statutory requirements.
At the Ordinary Meeting held on 21 October 2024, Council formally adopted Mr Paul’s report. Councillors and council officers then collaborated to develop a comprehensive action plan to implement the recommendations over the following six months.
A key achievement has been the development and adoption of the Northern Midlands Council Consolidated Meeting Procedures which was introduced in February 2025.
Mayor Knowles said that document represents a major step forward in ensuring consistent, transparent, and effective governance at Council meetings.
“It provides a clear procedural framework that supports informed decision-making and reinforces Council’s commitment to serving the community with integrity and accountability,” she said
In line with the recommendations, Council also undertook a thorough review of its existing policies, particularly those related to Work Health and Safety (WHS), with a focus on psychosocial hazards.
“This review enhanced awareness and understanding among both elected members and council officers of their responsibilities in maintaining a safe and respectful workplace.
“The process has contributed to a stronger organisational culture and a more supportive working environment,” Mayor Knowles said.
Mayor Knowles said the collaborative efforts of councillors and staff over the past six months reflected a shared commitment to continuous improvement, good governance, and community-focused leadership.
Council remains dedicated to building on these reforms to ensure long-term organisational resilience and public trust.
The following links are provided: