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Newcastle Council Launches Independent Review

today13 January 2025

Background
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City of Newcastle has announced an independent review of its governance, financial management, compliance, community engagement, and major project oversight. This move, endorsed unanimously at the December Council meeting, seeks to rebuild trust and enhance transparency.

The review, led by Davidson Business Advisory, invites community members to contribute feedback on the terms of reference from 13 January to 29 January 2025. However, concerns have been raised over the brief submission window and the timing of the release during a traditionally quiet holiday period.

Rebuilding Trust

Lord Mayor Dr Ross Kerridge said the review aims to address lingering questions about Newcastle Council’s performance and governance.

“I am committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and excellence in our governance,” Cr Kerridge stated. “This review is not about restructuring but providing independent assurance of our performance and compliance with regulated obligations.”

Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull highlighted the expertise of Davidson Business Advisory and their lead consultant, Colin Jensen, whose extensive experience includes 14 years as CEO of Brisbane City Council.

“This is a critical opportunity to assess and improve how Council serves its community,” Cr Pull said. The findings will be presented later this year, following oversight from Newcastle’s Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee.

Community Concerns on Timing and Trust

Despite the review’s intentions, some community members and stakeholders have expressed concerns over its timing and duration for submissions. Dr Kerridge, in a social media post, pledged to hold the process accountable.

“I note with concern the extremely short window for submissions… I will call out any compromise in the integrity of this investigation,” he said. “The community deserves full transparency and a genuine opportunity to be heard.”

Have Your Say

The review covers five key themes: general governance, financial governance, compliance, community engagement, and major project management. Community members can provide feedback via an external portal, with options for confidential submissions.

“This is an opportunity to shape Newcastle’s future and ensure Council operates with the transparency and efficiency our community deserves,” Dr Kerridge said.

To participate in the review, visit the submission portal here.

As Newcastle embarks on this journey of introspection, it remains to be seen whether the Council can effectively address historical grievances and pave the way for a more transparent and accountable future.

Written by: Newy Staff


Newy 87.8 FM is an FM radio station established in 2014 targeting Classic Hits music enthusiasts across Newcastle and The Central Coast, Australia. The station plays 60s 70s and 80s music. The station can be streamed online via this website or smart phone apps such as Tunein. In 2024 we opened a local newsroom dedicated to publishing Newcastle News.