Governance Rules open for community feedback

Published on 27 August 2025

Council is inviting community feedback on proposed amendments to its Governance Rules.

The draft revisions include a range of administrative updates and clarifications aimed at improving transparency and understanding of specific clauses in the Governance Rules.

Proposed improvements to the Governance Rules include:

• Clarification and definitions for petitions and joint letters

• Changes to clarify and simplify public question time

• Changes to align the use of the Chair’s casting vote with the provisions in the Local Government Act

Council’s Executive Officer Governance Anita Craven said Councillors and Officers had worked together to prepare the proposed improvements.

“Council is continually improving our processes, the draft revisions take onboard Councillor and Officer feedback for updates and improvements to ensure our Governance processes are clear,” Ms Craven said.

“Councillors are committed to transparent decision making and ensuring we do what we can to encourage public input and participation.

“For example, proposed changes aim to clarify and simplify public question time, giving meeting participants the opportunity to provide background information before asking their question.

Council endorsed the draft Governance Rules for public exhibition at its August meeting. Community members are now invited to have their say, with submissions open until Tuesday 7 October 2025 at 5pm.

Any person wishing to speak to their written submission may request to be heard at an upcoming Submissions Committee meeting (date to be advised).

Council also notes that Local Government Victoria, in collaboration with the sector, is currently developing Model Governance Rules for use by all Victorian councils. These are expected to be finalised by early 2026, at which time Council anticipates a further review of its Governance Rules.

For more information or to make a submission, visit Draft Governance Rules - Colac Otway Shire