The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) has declared the results of the Kingston Melaleuca Ward by-election, however, has also announced it has referred the results to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) due to concerns over potential voting irregularities.
The VEC declared Nikki Kaur as the winner, with Cr Kaur immediately taking the oath of office to serve as Councillor.
The VEC will refer matters to VCAT to ensure the integrity and validity of the election. Cr Kaur will serve as Kingston Councillor until any further advice is provided by VCAT and the VEC. View the VEC statement.
Kingston Mayor Georgina Oxley said Council was deeply committed to upholding local democracy and will work closely with the VEC to ensure all correct procedures are followed. Council welcomes that the VEC has also referred the matter to the Local Government Inspectorate and any necessary agencies.
Mayor Oxley also congratulated Cr Kaur on her election.
"It is my pleasure to congratulate Nikki on her election and welcome her to Council," Cr Oxley said.
"I look forward to working alongside Cr Kaur and my fellow councillors as we continue delivering the projects, services and advocacy that matter most to our community."
Cr Kaur said she was honoured to have been elected and thanked everyone in Melaleuca Ward for placing their trust in her.
"I'm looking forward to getting out into the community, meeting residents and businesses, listening to what's important to people and working alongside my fellow councillors to make a positive difference for Melaleuca Ward and the wider Kingston community," she said.
Cr Kaur has lived in Kingston for almost two decades, has volunteered extensively in the community and brings skills from her professional background in both IT and OHS.
City of Kingston CEO Peter Bean thanked the 13 by-election candidates who put themselves forward to serve their local community.
"Standing for election takes time, commitment and courage, and I thank every candidate for their willingness to contribute to their community and to the democratic process," Mr Bean said.
"I congratulate Cr Kaur and wish her all the very best as she begins her term as a local Councillor, serving and leading the Kingston community."
