THE Queensland government has launched its search to find a leader to take the reigns at the new local government corruption-busting Office of the Independent Assessor.
Local government minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the position required a strong leader with impeccable integrity and governance credentials to drive implementation of councillor complaints reforms in Queensland.
He said the office would be tasked with improving accountability, integrity and transparency of local governments.
“We are looking for the best person available to lead the Office of the Independent Assessor and implement this important reform for local government,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“The office of the independent assessor will be charged with providing a simpler and more streamlined system for making, investigating and determining complaints about councillor conduct.
“It is expected the successful applicant will have a legal background with advanced experience in the investigation or prosecution of complaints, professional conduct or integrity matters.
“The independent assessor will be able to quickly dismiss vexatious and uncorroborated accusations.
“Anyone making a genuine complaint can expect it to be dealt with independently and in a faster and fairer manner.
“It will also promote high standards of conduct by elected councillors by providing advice, training and information.”
The Queensland Government has set aside $14.1 million over four years to establish the statutory authority as part of its local government reform agenda.
“Our reform agenda is about ensuring Queensland has a system of local government that is robust, accountable and transparent, with very clear rules,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
The Queensland government has created the new office and legislated to introduce a raft of new legislation following the CCC’s continuing Operation Belcarra. Two former Ipswich mayors and Logan mayor Luke Smith are among those facing charges. Mr Smith has vowed to fight the charges.
The Office of the Independent Assessor will commence operations in December.
Applications close on August 7. Get more information here.
