Suspended local council plagued by sexism, claims outgoing mayor

The female mayor of a council suspended by the state government for governance failures claims she was subjected to “insidious” sexism.

Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Laura Binks claims that sexism is rife within the inner sanctum of her now suspended local government.

A Goulburn Valley mayor whose council has been suspended by the state government for a failure of governance says she and other councillors have been on the receiving end of vile sexism.

Suspended Strathbogie Shire mayor Laura Binks’ claims come after the Victorian government suspended the entire Strathbogie Shire Council after a report found that councillors were providing “substandard service” to the local community.

The report found that some councillors did not fully understand their role, and did not respect the chief executive, Julie Salomon.

The council has five sitting councillors, but usually has seven councillors.

The suspension applies to all members of Strathbogie Shire Council and takes effect from Wednesday, 6 December until the next local council elections in October 2024.

Ms Binks had previously released a statement on December 1 detailing a comment made by a fellow councillor, who she alleges called her a “schoolgirl”.

In her statement, Ms Binks referred to the sexism she had received as “insidious”.

Speaking in the aftermath of her suspension, Ms Binks said she was flabbergasted at the treatment she alleges that both herself and other female councillors have received.

“I’ve certainly experienced sexism and disrespectful behaviour behind closed doors,” she said.

Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Laura Binks claims that sexism is rife within the inner sanctum of her now suspended local government.

Asked about her decision to speak publicly about the issue, Ms Binks said: “I’ve been so committed to this process … I’ve had incredible support from our CEO … The easy thing to do would have been for me to resign, or just ignore it.”

Ms Binks also said she had been overwhelmed with support from fellow councillors from around Victoria, who have indicated to her that sexism was a widespread local government issue.

Ms Binks said one of her main aims as mayor was to provide an inclusive workplace that was fit for people of all different backgrounds.

“I want this to be a place that lots of different people from our community are excited to put their hand up to run for local government,” she said.

Ms Salomon said the organisation was committed to the community and officers would continue to focus on delivering the services provided.

“Over the last four years, we have delivered on the initiatives and actions within the Council Plan in partnership with our community,” she said.

She did not comment on the allegations.

Strathbogie Shire Council has 7000 rate payers and sits in the town of Euroa.

An interim administrator will be appointed in response to Municipal Monitor Peter Stephenson’s final report.

Tuesday, December 5 was the council’s last sitting day.