- Local Government Inspector appoints WA's first Local Government Monitor to City of Perth
- Carol Adams OAM will provide recommendations to improve governance at the city
- Local Government Inspector commenced on 1 January 2026 to improve accountability and governance across the sector
Local Government Inspector Tony Brown has appointed the first Local Government Monitor to the City of Perth, just 14 days into his powers commencing.
Carol Adams OAM, who served on the Kwinana Council for 26 years, including 17 as Mayor, has been appointed to the city after issues arose between the council and administration late last year.
Ms Adams will review the City of Perth's governance practices and decision-making processes, andreport her observations to the Inspector.
Her appointment takes effect from 19 January 2026 until 17 April 2026 and can be extended.
A Monitor's role includes observing meetings, including those held in closed session, inspecting documents, and reviewing governance practices.
Local government councillors and staff are expected to:
- co-operate fully with the Monitor;
- provide access to relevant documents, meetings, and personnel; and
- engage openly and constructively to address identified issues.
The costs of a Monitor are met by the local government.
The role of Local Government Inspector was introduced as part of landmark local government reforms designed to improve accountability, decision-making, and transparency across the sector.
Under the reforms, the Local Government Inspector can investigate complaints, issue infringements of up to $1,000, intervene where potential issues are identified, and recommend the dismissal of a council or council member to the Local Government Minister.
As stated by Local Government Minister Hannah Beazley:
"The Local Government Inspector powers commenced on 1 January 2026 and two weeks into the role, the Inspector has taken action by appointing a Local Government Monitor to the City of Perth.
"The Local Government Inspector means business, and he will not hesitate to act to address dysfunction and strengthen integrity across the sector.
"The message from me to all local governments is clear: lift your game, or we will take action."
As stated by Local Government Inspector Tony Brown:
"My focus as Inspector is on early engagement to encourage greater accountability and appropriate decision-making across all 139 local governments.
"I have appointed Carol Adams to the City of Perth under Section 8B.37 of the Local Government Act 1995.
"Ms Adams is a former lawyer, has significant experience in local government, and is highly regarded in the sector.
"She will report to me while working proactively with the City of Perth to assist in resolving governance challenges."
