Maribyrnong councillors ask MAV to lobby for pay rise
COUNCILLORS from this inner-west council are seeking a pay increase, despite racking up hefty expense claims. Do you think our councillors deserve a pay rise?
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MARIBYRNONG councillors are seeking a pay rise despite racking up almost $1000 a week in expense claims.
Maribyrnong Council has submitted a motion to the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) requesting a review of councillor allowances to “better reflect the time commitment, community expectations and minimum wage values.”
Maribyrnong Council deems councillor roles to be voluntary but pays them an allowance of $24,730 each year, while the mayor gets $76,521.
COUNCILLORS RACK UP EXPENSE CLAIMS
MARIBYRNONG COUNCIL COMPLAINT CAPITAL OF WEST
HOMEOWNERS IN MARIBYRNONG PAY HIGH RATES
The council argues the allowances should be reviewed in line with the salary and expenses of state politicians
The Leader previously reported councillors splashed $3635 on mobile phones, $1622 on child care and $3450 on training from May to July this year, according to data from the Councillor Support and Expenses Report.
Mayor Cuc Lam said councillors devoted a lot of extra time to serving the community.
“As councillors, we attend briefings, council meetings, community events and meet with residents — most of which occurs after hours,” she said.
“A review of allowances seeks to recognise this commitment.”
But Ratepayers Victoria vice-president Frank Sullivan said councillors were paid a sufficient amount and don’t not need a pay rise.
“If they’re used in the correct way, the allowances are definitely enough,” Mr Sullivan said. “Councillors are elected on a voluntary basis, so the allowances should just be to cover their expenses.
“We are concerned about the accountability of our ratepayer’s money.”
The MAV will vote on the motion this Friday at its State Council meeting.
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