Greater Dandenong councillors use credit cards for meals, travel and other expenses
Ratepayers in Melbourne’s southeast are footing the bill for councillors to use credit cards with a $2000 limit on meals, travel and other expenses. One councillor was so disgusted with the largesse he cut up his card.
South East
Don't miss out on the headlines from South East . Followed categories will be added to My News.
Ratepayers of a southeast council are footing the bill for councillors to use credit cards to pay for meals, travel and other expenses.
The Leader can reveal every Greater Dandenong councillor is provided with a credit card, which has a limit of $2000 to use on “incidental expenses incurred in performing their role as councillors”.
Councillor Tim Dark slammed the policy, saying it was completely “unnecessary”.
“When I received mine, I was shocked and cut it up immediately. I believe some of my colleagues use it regularly for cab charges, meals and travel — it’s just not right,” Cr Dark said.
“Councillors receive a healthy allowance to cover expenses, so I don’t get why they need a credit card on top of this.”
The councillor expenses form listed on Greater Dandenong Council’s website shows some councillors racked up almost $6000 on expenses on airfares, accommodation and vehicle mileage.
Ratepayers Victoria president Dean Hurlston said there was no justification for the council to be giving a councillor free reign on expenditure.
“Council has appropriate reimbursement policies in place. Planned expenditure (such as travel) can be pre approved and paid for by the executive officers and chief executive in advance,” Mr Hurlston said.
“This is poor governance from a risk management strategic view.
“Ratepayers Victoria wants all councils to have to publish all councillor, chief executive and credit card expenses on their websites.”
Greater Dandenong Council corporate services acting director Kylie Sprague said the credit cards were often used for food when travelling and travel to and from locations.
Ms Sprague said a rigorous approval process was required under the councillor reimbursement, support and accountability policy
“A new council expenses policy … required under the new Local Government Act 2020 is going up to council for in principle adoption this Monday, July 13,” she said.
“The new Local Government Act 2020 expressly states that councillors and members of delegated committees must not be disadvantaged in any way when performing their roles.”
MORE NEWS
HEDGES AROUND MORNINGTON PROPERTIES COULD BE OUTLAWED
FORMER AUSTIN HOSPITAL NURSE HAD SEX WITH VULNERABLE PATIENTS