Adelaide City Councillor Mary Couros has expressed concern over the misuse of a new behaviour standards framework in local government, which she claims is being weaponised to silence critics and harass women.
The policy, introduced as part of the 2022 overhaul of the Local Government Act, aimed to reduce lawyer costs and prevent the weaponisation of complaints.
However, according to The Advertiser, Cr Couros and other councillors argue that the framework continues to be abused, with petty complaints being filed and handled in secrecy.
Cr Couros, who was elected in 2018, shared her shock at the level of bullying within the council.
“The bullying continues unchecked, with councillors using the confidential complaint process as a weapon to intimidate and silence their peers,” she said.
She also revealed that navigating the flawed process had cost her over $10,000 in legal fees.
Adelaide Hills Councillor Louise Pascale echoed Cr Couros’ concerns, describing harassment, particularly of women, under the new policy.
Cr Pascale, who has taken stress leave twice due to the severity of her experience, warned that the hostile environment could deter women from entering local government.
The issue has raised broader concerns, with some calling for an independent inquiry into harassment in local councils, including sexual harassment.
The Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) has been helping women navigate the code of conduct, and Campbelltown Mayor Jill Whittaker noted the framework’s slow implementation and the challenges of managing complaints in-house.
The mental toll on female councillors has been significant, with some seeking psychological support to cope with their experiences.
Councillors are calling for stronger punishment for perpetrators, including potential bans from running for office.
SA Local Government Minister Joe Szakacs stated that there is no place for bullying or harassment in local government.
Source: The Advertiser.
