Requesting a monitor

Guidance and request form for local governments seeking support through the appointment of a monitor.

Last updated: 1 January 2026

If a local government is experiencing difficulties in performing its functions, complying with legislation, or facing other challenges, it may request the appointment of a monitor to provide oversight and support.

Who can make a request?

A written request to the Local Government Inspector can be submitted by the:

Mayor or President
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
council, through an absolute majority resolution.

The request must include detailed information about the matters requiring assistance. The Inspector may seek further clarification from the CEO, or, if the request originated from them, from the Mayor, President or council.

It is up to the Inspector to determine whether a monitor will be appointed.

What does a monitor do?

If appointed, a monitor may:

observe council meetings, including those held in closed session
adjourn meetings that are disorderly, unlawful, or non-compliant
review local government documents
require council members and employees to meet with the monitor.

The monitor’s powers will vary depending on the nature of the assignment and the terms of their appointment.

The monitor will report to the Inspector on the outcome of the monitoring assignment.

Responsibilities of the local government

Once a monitor is appointed, local governments are expected to:

cooperate fully with the monitor
provide access to relevant documents, meetings, and personnel
engage openly and constructively to address identified issues.

Please note: The costs associated with the appointment of a monitor are the responsibility of the local government, whether it’s an appointment at the request of a local government or of the Inspector’s own initiative. This includes all fees and expenses incurred during the monitor’s engagement.