Will Brimbank watchdog make a difference?

The Brumby Labor Government now has its watchdog in place to oversea the conduct of Councillors and ensure there’s no dodgy dealings going on. If you haven’t been keeping up with this issue the state ombudsman investigated allegations of corruption, collusion and nepotism among the dominant ALP-right faction of Brimbank City Councillors (you can read more detail about it here and here). But as has been noted by other commentators, the appointee has a long history working for the Labor Party, as well as being a member at some stage. So with already questionable credentials for independence, there will be some strong community scrutiny of the watchdog, the so called council inspector.

If the Brumby government and/or the council inspector delay or defer on releasing the reports then it will provide further proof the government isn’t interested in cleaning up the problems plaguing Brimbank, including others like Casey City and Hume City. And of course providing further proof the Brumby government isn’t interested in open and transparent governance, despite its public claims to the contrary. Victoria’s governments of either persuasion has a long history of resisting calls to establish an independent anti-crime and corruption commission.

For Brimbank’s residents and ratepayers it will provide further evidence that they can have little confidence in the Council acting in the best interests of residents and ratepayers. And further justify calls for the Council to be dissolved and fresh elections held.