- Formal inquiry to examine the City of Perth operations and affairs.
Local Government Inspector Tony Brown has addressed the City of Perth Council at a closed meeting on 14 September 2026 to announce a formal inquiry into the operations and affairs of the City.
The inquiry, commencing on 21 September, is expected to be completed within 12 weeks and will examine governance, decision-making, accountability and the effective functioning of Council.
The announcement follows the Inspector's assessment of a six-month monitoring process undertaken at the City of Perth.
Since 1 January 2026, 25 complaints involving elected members have been referred to the Local Government Adjudicator for consideration and determination.
Local Government Monitor Carol Adams OAM was appointed to observe governance practices at the City over a six-month period from January 2026. At the completion of her assignment, the Monitor provided an independent report to the Inspector.
Following consideration of the Monitor's report, the Inspector has identified 12 remedial actions for the City of Perth to undertake within six months to strengthen governance, accountability and decision-making practices.
The inquiry will focus on compliance with confidentiality obligations, challenges in collaborative decision-making, and other conduct that may adversely affect the good governance of the City.
The Inspector will undertake the formal inquiry through a streamlined process designed to deliver timely, definitive and cost-effective outcomes for ratepayers.
Comments attributed to Tony Brown, Local Government Inspector:
“By building on the significant work already undertaken through the monitoring process, the inquiry will determine, in an efficient and cost-effective manner, whether further action is needed to strengthen governance, accountability and public confidence in the City of Perth.”
“I expect the City of Perth to cooperate fully and complete the recommended 12 remedial actions from the Monitors report while the inquiry is underway.
“If the inquiry finds further action is required I will not hesitate.”
Media enquiries: lginspector.media@lgirs.wa.gov.au
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