At an Extraordinary Council Meeting held on Monday 2 November 2026, Council endorsed its collective response to correspondence from the Minister for Local Government, the Hon. Ron Hoenig MP, with the matter receiving unanimous support from all councillors in attendance.
The Minister’s letter – received 22 October – advised that he was considering exercising his powers under Section 438I of the Local Government Act 1993 to suspend the governing body of Council for a period of up to three months, raising concerns regarding the conduct of council meetings, the repeated involvement of NSW Police in maintaining order, and the apparent deterioration of working relationships between councillors.
Whilst acknowledging the challenges that have arisen within the Chamber, Council’s submission highlights that council has been delivering in spite of the challenges, noting implementation of council decisions, reduction of debt and staff vacancies, and completion of long-awaited projects as signs of progress.
The submission accepts that improvement is required, however instead of suspending the council, proposes an Improvement Plan incorporating facilitated mediation and training for all councillors and the Mayor, and requests the Minister appoint a temporary adviser to support proceedings and report back on progress.
Council also resolved that all councillors will sign a Good Conduct Undertaking, outlining their commitment to engaging in the Improvement Plan in good faith.
The recording of the Extraordinary Meeting and the meeting minutes can be found on Council’s homepage.
Council’s submission to the Minister will be provided by 6 November 2026 in accordance with his requirements. It is not known when the Minister will announce his decision.
Media Release: Moree Plains Shire Council
