Council approves prestigious governance training for trio of councillors

THREE Bass Coast Shire councillors will soon undertake top-tier leadership training with the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). It has been estimated that the professional development opportunity will cost between $24,000 and $27,600 in total or approximately $8,000 to $9,200 per participant.

Council acknowledged the potential for public backlash however elected members fiercely defended the decision framing the cost as a necessary investment in high-level civic capability.

The original request for the specialised training came from Cr Tracey Bell. An eleventh-hour amendment expanded the funding allocation to include Cr Meg Edwards and Cr Jan Thompson.

Speaking to support the training, Cr Bell emphasised that local leaders were stewards of community assets who manage public funds and long-term risk. Bell cited complex local projects, like the Cowes streetscape development and the dust suppression seal removal policy, as examples requiring evidence-based decision-making.

Cr Jon Temby also strongly endorsed the motion calling the training vital for management.

Despite scrutiny from Cr Edwards one of the course participants, about the direct benefit to ratepayers amid current economic pressures, the motion gained broad backing, including from historical critics of council spending.

Under standard council governance and support expenses policies, professional development funding is typically capped or restricted in the final year of a council term to ensure ratepayer funds are not spent on individuals who may not return to office.

Cr Mat Morgan said high-quality development was a rare benefit for councillors, who currently worked below the minimum wage without superannuation. Cr O’Brien said councillor allowances were currently comparable to a first- or second-year apprentice.

Former Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead also backed the program, noting that while the course was highly demanding, it significantly improved her own leadership capabilities. Addressing public criticism over training expenses, Halstead reminded critics that councillors do not receive superannuation, making professional development a fair and necessary investment. "What you'll be able to contribute to our community will far outweigh the expense," Cr Halstead noted.

Despite anticipating public pushback regarding the financial cost, councillors remained unified in their support. They maintained that the intensive training will directly benefit local residents by equipping the trio with superior decision-making and strategic skills.

The substantial investment will come with strict accountability measures to ensure value for ratepayers. Upon completing the rigorous program, Councillors Bell, Edwards, and Thompson must each submit a formal report to the council chamber detailing exactly how the newly acquired skills will be applied to everyday council governance.

With the funding now approved the trio of councillors will enrol in the upcoming intake of the highly regarded course, bringing elevated corporate governance principles back to the Bass Coast community upon graduation.

The shared knowledge is expected to deliver long-term strategic benefits to both internal council operations and the wider municipality through more informed, transparent decision-making.

By aligning councillor training with the standards of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Bass Coast Shire is aiming to bolster its defence against the risks of financial mismanagement and strategic drift.

For now, the focus remains on the upcoming enrolment of Councillors Bell, Edwards, and Thompson as they prepare to balance their ongoing civic duties with the demands of one of Australia's most challenging professional programs.