On 7 July 2026, the Local Government Inspector appointed Jeff Gooding PSM as Local Government Monitor to the Shire of Halls Creek. In the interests of transparency, the Shire is publishing the Inspector's media statement and the Monitor's Terms of Appointment in full below.
Under his Terms of Appointment, the Monitor will observe and advise on the Shire's governance and decision-making processes and practices. This includes how Council Members understand and perform their roles under the Local Government Act 1995, working relationships between Council Members and with Shire staff, including Council Member conduct with respect to the Shire's Code of Conduct, the conduct of Council decision-making at ordinary and special meetings, and the effectiveness of advice and compliance support provided to Council.
The Monitor will provide a final report to the Local Government Inspector by 18 December 2026, including an action plan setting out any recommended improvements.
The Shire welcomes Mr Gooding's appointment and will cooperate fully with him. The elected Council remains in place and continues to make decisions, and all Shire services continue as normal.
