Perth Voice Interactive

LOCAL government finances are to be overseen by the auditor general, with the Barnett government adopting a recommendation from a CCC report launched soon after massive rorting was uncovered at Stirling council.

The report found local governments are vulnerable to fraud, corruption, and other misconduct.

Local government minister Tony Simpson has introduced legislation to make the change, saying there’s no reason for councils to be less open and accountable than other levels of government.

“This [Bill] will not only improve local governments’ understanding of their financial position…but also provide local governments with the ability to take corrective action in a timely way,” Mr Simpson told the legislative assembly.

“In this way, ratepayers’ funds and community interests are better protected.”

by TRILOKESH CHANMUGAM