CCC launches probe into Moreton Bay Regional Council

QUEENSLAND’S crime watchdog is investigating a complaint against the Moreton Bay Regional Council. It is the latest in a string of investigations by the CCC into local council corruption allegations.

Moreton Bay Regional Council Mayor Allan Sutherland. He has previously been cleared by the CCC after concerns were raised about his advertising and fundraising practices in the lead-up to the polls. Picture: Bradley Cooper

QUEENSLAND’S crime watchdog is investigating a complaint against the Moreton Bay Regional Council.

The Crime and Corruption Commission today confirmed it had received a complaint against the council, but would not reveal details.

“As the investigation is ongoing it would not be appropriate for the CCC to comment further,” a spokesperson said in a statement.

The probe is the latest in a string of investigations by the CCC into local council corruption allegations.

Fifteen people, including former mayor Paul Pisasale and suspended mayor Andrew Antoniolli, are facing 86 charges as a result of its investigation into Ipswich City Council.

Suspended Logan City Council Mayor Paul Smith is also facing CCC charges of corruption and perjury, and sacked Fraser Coast Regional Council mayor Chris Loft has been charged with several offences including misconduct in public office.

The CCC is also investigating allegations of corruption against several Gold Coast City councillors including Mayor Tom Tate.

Moreton Bay Regional Council has previously come to the attention of the CCC through its Operation Belcarra, which investigated complaints of possible local government corruption in the March 2016 elections.

Mayor Allan Sutherland was cleared by the CCC after concerns were raised about his advertising and fundraising practices in the lead-up to the polls. Moreton Bay Council has been contacted for comment.