What is an Authorised Officer?

An Authorised Officer is a Council employee appointed, through an Instrument of Appointment and Authorisation, to carry out a statutory compliance or enforcement functions under legislation related to powers and functions of Council.

Who appoints an Authorised Officer?

There are two ways an Authorised Officer can be appointed:

by Council at a Council meeting; or

by the Chief Executive Officer.

NOTE: The Chief Executive Officer has powers conferred to them by Council through the S5Instrument of Delegation. It is through this Delegation that allows the Chief Executive Office to appoint Authorised Officers by means of an Instrument of Appointment and Authorisation that fall under section 224 of the Local Government Act 1989.

What powers does an Authorised Officer have?

Authorised Officer specific powers vary, depending on the piece of Legislation they work under and their position responsibilities. Authorised Officers also have the power to institute proceedings and represent Council in Court.

Common legislation and laws that Authorised Officer’s enforce through the municipality are as follows:

·       Building Act 1993

·       Domestic Animals Act 1994

·       Emergency Management Act2013

·       Fire Services Property Levy Act 2012

·       Food Act 1984

·       Graffiti Prevention Act 2007

·       Housing Act 1983

·       Impounding of Livestock Act1994

·       Land Act 1958

·       Local Government Act 1989

·       Local Government Act 2020

·       Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008

·       Part 14 of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997

·       Road Management Act 2004

·       Road Safety Act 1986

·       Summary Offences Act 1966

·       Tobacco Act 1987

·       the Regulations made under each of those Acts

·       Local Laws under the Local Government Act 1989 and the Local Government Act 2020

Authorised Officer identification card:

All Authorised Officers have an identification card with information including: the officer’s photograph and signature and the Chief Executive Officer’s signature.