The Internal Resolution Procedure provides a structured approach for handling alleged breaches of the Model Councillor Code of Conduct, encouraging respectful and constructive resolution of disputes to maintain effective working relationships and minimise disruption to Council operations.

This Procedure aims to:

• Promote Good Governance: Support the principles of good governance within Council, ensuring transparency, accountability and integrity in all dealings.
• Maintain Standards of Conduct: Uphold high standards of conduct among Councillors by providing clear guidelines and processes for addressing alleged breaches of the Model Councillor Code of Conduct.
• Ensure Fairness and Consistency: Implement a consistent and fair approach to managing and resolving allegations of misconduct, ensuring that all parties are treated equitably and with respect.
• Enhance Public Confidence: Foster public trust and confidence in the Council's commitment to ethical behaviour and responsible governance by demonstrating a proactive approach to managing conduct issues.
• Support Councillor Development: Provide Councillors with the necessary support and resources to understand and comply with the Model Councillor Code of Conduct, promoting ongoing professional development and ethical decision-making.

Read the Internal Resolution Procedure for more information.

We are committed to being accessible and responsive to our community and members of the public and value respectful relationships.

At the 5 October 2021 Council Meeting a Mutual Respect Charter was adopted to support a key principle of providing a safe and respectful workplace. It is based on the principle of mutual respect and cooperation. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of the community, Councillors and staff in all Council-related interactions.

The Charter reads:

The community has the right and responsibility to:

• Be treated with courtesy and respect
• Be given reasons that explain decisions affecting them
• A fair and impartial assessment based on the facts and merits of the matter
• A timely response
• Express their opinions in ways that are respectful and lawful
• A fair hearing
• Communicate valid concerns and views without fear of reprisal
• Access Council’s complaints management policy
• Be informed about the actions taken and outcome of their complaint

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Councillors and staff have the right and responsibility to:

• Be treated with courtesy and respect
• A safe and healthy working environment
• Expect honesty, cooperation and reasonable assistance from the community
• Zero tolerance on verbal abuse, offensive behaviour, threats and violence
• Provide reasons for decisions, and ensure that decisions are subject to appropriate review processes
• Be clear on how the matter will be handled, including compliance to statutory and/or legislative processes
• Modify, curtail or decline service in response to unacceptable behaviour which because of its nature or frequency raises health, safety, resource or equity issues

East Gippsland Shire Council has a zero-tolerance approach to child abuse, and we are committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children. We create and maintain a child safe organisation where protecting children and preventing and responding to child abuse is embedded in the everyday thinking and practice of all individuals.