Accountability: A Call for Transparency

The Victor Harbor Council, under the leadership of the current CEO and Mayor, appears to be facing significant governance and transparency challenges. There are concerns that the majority of elected members are failing to thoroughly investigate and question Council’s financial management. Consequently, community assets are reportedly deteriorating, substantial pay increases are being allocated, and ethical staff members are leaving, often under non-disclosure agreements.

If these claims are incorrect, we welcome clarification from the CEO and Mayor. Should they believe this statement to be defamatory, they are entitled to pursue legal action. We stand ready to provide evidence and welcome the opportunity for all the facts to be fully disclosed in a public forum, such as a court of law, ensuring accountability to the community.

We encourage all elected members to independently research these issues. Seek advice from experienced colleagues or consult impartial financial experts. Ratepayers, you can empower yourself by examining the Audit and Risk Committee reports and searching the Council’s website for financial statements—although these documents may not be easy to locate.

It is our sincere hope that these concerns are unfounded. As a long-term resident and ratepayer, I wish I could take pride in a Council working towards a prosperous and sustainable future for our community. Instead, we face growing uncertainty and mounting debt—a stark contrast to the debt-free status the Council once held before the current leadership assumed office.

A Platform for Truth

This platform is dedicated to fostering transparency and holding leadership accountable. Our aim is to provide a balanced view, analysing Council press releases minutes of meetings while also presenting overlooked or under-reported aspects of Council activities.

We respect the role of elected members and recognise that they speak as individuals, not as representatives of the entire Council. Their insights, along with those of residents, are vital to ensuring a robust and fair discussion about the direction of our community.

We invite you to share your thoughts and concerns on Council matters. Submissions to this platform will be reviewed for publication, with the caveat that abusive or inappropriate language will not be tolerated.

Terry Andrews
Chair, Council Watch
Email:voiceforall@gmail.com
Phone: 0453 140 543

Objectives

• To provide constant over-site of all activities of the victor harbor council. We will advocate on behalf of residents and ratepayers to protect and advance their interests.
• We will provide a public forum for an exchange of views and the sharing of information on any relevant matters. 
• We will seek quality input by engaging with members of the community who have the skills, experience, abilities, and knowledge to contribute to the well being of the area where we live.
• We will support elected members with research and advice that will help them advance the harmony and the financial well being of the Council and of the community.