Andrews Government will not follow NSW’s lead to allow ‘virtual’ meetings by local councils
A push is on for local councils to be allowed to hold ‘virtual’ meetings amid coronavirus fears. But the state government says it’s not that easy to change the law.
VIC News
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Victoria has ruled out allowing councils to hold “virtual” meetings amid fears that coronavirus will lead to a breakdown in municipal governance.
It’s understood that several councils across Victoria are also questioning if elections scheduled for later this year should be postponed.
Local government laws require meetings to be held face-to-face, but councils are increasingly concerned about the health risks of attending due to coronavirus.
The NSW government announced yesterday that the state’s law would be changed to allow councils to hold meetings electronically.
It may also consider postponing elections set for September.
Opposition local government spokesman Tim Smith said options should be explored for Victorian councils to hold virtual meetings.
But the Andrews Government has ruled out any changes, saying current legislation required councillors to be physically present for meetings.
“Councils continue to operate at this time, but we advise all councillors and the public to undertake social distancing measures and ensure they stay at least 1.5m away from each other at all times,” a spokeswoman said.
The government will monitor the impacts of coronavirus on the October council elections.
Lord Mayor Sally Capp said: “The community relies on councils to make decisions that impact their daily lives, but in the current climate we are handcuffed by the restrictions in the Local Government Act.”
“We need to prioritise the health and safety of our communities while also continuing to
deliver results,” she said.
Speaking in a private capacity, Macedon Ranges Shire councillor Andrew Twaits said virtual meetings were essential for good governance.
“(M)any councillors who are either in high risk categories or are essential services providers themselves will choose not to attend meetings or are forced to self-isolate,” he said on social media.
“In my view, if this position is maintained, it will quickly lead to an effective breakdown in the governance of local councils,” he said.
Municipal Association of Victoria president Coral Ross said requiring councillors to meet face-to-face went against current health advice.
“With streaming and virtual meetings now widely available, we call on the Minister for Local
Government Adem Somyurek and the State Government to make this common sense
decision and enable one of these options to be implemented as as alternative to meeting
face-to-face,” she said.
Workplace relations lawyer, from Mills Oakley Lawyers, asked “what makes it essential for councils to meet face-to-face”.
“Does (Mr Somyurek) think this sends the right message to a community otherwise taking drastic measures to avoid non-essential contact,” he said on social media.
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