Inspector’s Inquiry
The City of Perth acknowledges the Local Government Inspector’s decision to undertake an Inspector’s Inquiry into the City following the conclusion of the Inspector’s Monitoring Assignment to the City of Perth.
Local Government Inspector Tony Brown provided the City with observations arising from the monitoring process and 12 actions aimed at strengthening Council relationships and governance practices, during a briefing on 14 September 2026.
The City will work through these actions and cooperate fully with the Inspector throughout the Inquiry.
Throughout this process, the City will remain focused on delivering services, projects and priorities for residents, businesses and visitors.
The City recognises the importance of strong governance, constructive working relationships and maintaining community confidence, and will approach the Inquiry openly and constructively.
At the conclusion of the Inquiry, the findings will be made public by the Inspector.
Frequently asked questions
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What is the role of an Inspector?
The Inspector has a clear mandate to monitor local government compliance, educate and inform, receive and deal with complaints, conduct investigations and, if necessary, launch an Inspector’s Inquiry.
If the Inspector identifies the potential for significant dysfunction within a local government, they may commence an official inquiry.
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What happens during an Inquiry?
During such an inquiry, the Inspector and Inspectorate staff may require people associated with the local government to attend an interview, answer questions and compel them to give evidence.
The Inspector must prepare a report at the end of the inquiry setting out their findings. Depending on the Inquiry outcomes they may recommend the council, or a council member, be suspended or dismissed.
Based on the recommendation(s), the Minister for Local Government retains the option to establish an independent inquiry. Independent inquiries have all the powers of a Royal Commission.
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How long will the Inquiry last?The Inquiry is expected to last three months, starting 21 September 2026, with a public report expected in early 2027.
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Will there be a cost to the City of Perth?
The Local Government Act 1995 provides that the Minister may order a local government to pay to the State all or part of the costs of an Inquiry if an Inspector’s Report contains findings adverse to the local government, its council or any member, or any of its employees.
The Inquiry is estimated to cost $120,000.