Councillors' Code of Conduct
Yarra’s Councillors adopted a Councillors’ Code of Conduct in November 2009. In October 2010, Council revised the Code to bring it into line with changes to the Local Government Act.
The Code sets out how Councillors will carry out their duties with integrity, and impartially exercise their responsibilities in the interests of the local community.
The Councillors are legally bound to act in accordance with the Local Government Act
. The Code refers to sections of the Act, and elaborates on the way in which Yarra Councillors will apply the Act in their everyday activities.
The Code is due for review by Council in late 2012.
Preamble
Yarra City Council consists of nine Councillors democratically elected under the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act), as amended.
Yarra City Councillors are legally bound to act in accord with the Act. This document sets out the relevant provisions of the Act and elaborates on the way in which Yarra City Councillors will apply the Act and carry out their duties. Please note: Extracts from the Local Government Act 1989 (as amended) are indented and italicised throughout this Document.
Role of Council: - Section 3D of the Act
“To provide leadership and for the good governance of Yarra including:
a) Acting as a representative government by taking into account the diverse needs of the local community in decision-making
b) Providing leadership by establishing strategic objectives and monitoring their achievement
c) Maintaining the viability of the Council by ensuring that resources are managed in a responsible and accountable manner
d) Advocating the interests of the local community to other communities and governments
e) Acting as a responsible partner in government by taking into account the needs of other communities, and
f) Fostering community cohesion and encouraging active participation in civic life."
Code of Conduct
The Code is broken up into the following sections:
Councillor Conduct
Misuse of position
Improper Direction and Improper Influence
Confidential Information
Conflict of Interest Procedures
Assembly of Councillors
Dispute resolution procedures
Pre-election provisions
Councillor access to files
Acceptance of gifts and hospitality
Impartial decision-making
Councillor equipment
Councillor reimbursement provisions
Further Information
Ivan Gilbert
Executive Manager – Governance
9205 5110
Ivan.Gilbert@yarracity.vic.gov.au
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