Commission of Inquiry into Surf Coast Shire Council

In October 2002, the Hon Bob Cameron MP, former Minister for Local Government, appointed an independent Commission of Inquiry into Surf Coast Shire Council under section 209 of the Local Government Act 1989.

The Commission was established following the tabling of a report by an Inspector of Municipal Administration, which raised issues concerning the financial viability of the Council. Terry Maher was appointed Commissioner to conduct the Inquiry.

Commission of Inquiry Report

Surf Coast Shire Commission of Inquiry Report - June 2003  PDF, 511.54 KB

Minister's Response to the Surf Coast Shire Commission of Enquiry Report  PDF, 27.3 KB

Terms of Reference

To examine and report in writing, including any recommendations, on:

  1. The Surf Coast Shire Council’s financial situation, and in particular, the implications of the decisions by successive Councils and whether the Council is able to provide its community with the levels of service and infrastructure that will be required in the future;
  2. Any other matters relevant to the viability and sustainability of the Surf Coast Shire Council; and
  3. Any other issues which may arise as a result of this Inquiry or arising out of the report of the Inspector of Municipal Administration, Mr Merv Whelan.