The appointment of municipal monitors at Victoria's Moonee Valley City Council has been extended for an additional seven months.

Minister for Local Government, Melissa Horne, says the extension aims to further support the council in enhancing its governance practices amidst ongoing investigations and upcoming elections.

Initially appointed for a six-month period from 29 January to 29 July 2024, monitors Prue Digby and Phillip Carruthers will now continue their roles until 28 February 2025. 

This decision follows a report indicating that while the council has shown progress, further work is necessary to uphold good governance and ensure stability during the October 2024 elections.

Municipal monitors advise councils on governance improvements and report back to the Minister under section 179 of the Local Government Act 2020. 

Their extended role at Moonee Valley City Council will involve supporting the council’s councillor induction program, enhancing relationships among councillors, and assisting with CEO recruitment and employment processes.

The extension of monitors comes amid an ongoing investigation by the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC). 

Last year, the Essendon Royals soccer club revealed it had been notified of an IBAC inquiry into potential bribery involving Moonee Valley City Councillors. 

The club denied any involvement and has reportedly cooperated with the investigation.

The Allan Labor Government has introduced reforms to the Local Government Act 2020 to enhance culture, governance, and integrity standards in Victorian councils. 

These reforms include mandatory training for elected representatives, a uniform councillor code of conduct, and increased powers for the Minister to address councillor conduct issues.

More information on these reforms and the municipal monitor terms of reference are accessible here.