About the code of conduct framework

All councillors must follow the Local Government Code of Conduct. This sets the standards for councillor behaviour and decision-making. It provides a clear and enforceable framework that guides councillor conduct in a respectful and ethical manner, consistent with the values of the Tasmanian community.

By setting these standards, the code of conduct aims to strengthen community trust and confidence in council decision-making.

The code of conduct is enforced by an independent code of conduct panel. The panel investigates formal complaints about alleged breaches and has the power to issue sanctions against councillors if they are found to have contravened the code. The panel can request a complainant present at a hearing in relation to their complaint.

How to make a complaint

If you believe a councillor has breached the standards of behaviour set out in the code of conduct, follow these steps. You must lodge your complaint within six months of the alleged incident.

Step 1: Attempt resolution with councillor

Lodging a formal code of conduct complaint should be seen as a last resort. Before you lodge a complaint, you are expected to have first tried to resolve the issue directly with the councillor or through the council’s own dispute resolution process.

All councils must have a dispute resolution policy that outlines the process for managing disputes. You can find a copy of this policy on your local council's website. Find your council's website in the council directory.

Step 2: Prepare formal complaint

If you have completed the council's dispute resolution process and are still not satisfied, you can then lodge a formal complaint.

Submit your complaint on the form along with:

  • a statutory declaration verifying the information in your complaint is accurate
  • the prescribed fee (for 2025-26, this is $95.50).

In your complaint form, you must show you have either made reasonable efforts to resolve the issue using the council's internal process or explain why that process was not appropriate for your issue.

Step 3: Lodge your complaint

Lodge your completed complaint form, statutory declaration and fee with the general manager of the relevant council within six months of the alleged incident.

Step 4: Referral of complaint

Once a complaint is lodged, the general manager has 14 days to assess and ensure it meets the requirements of the Local Government Act.

If the complaint is valid, the general manager must then refer it to the appropriate body.

If the complaint is against less than half of the council's councillors, it is referred to a code of conduct panel.

If the complaint is against one half or more of the council's councillors, it is referred to the Director of Local Government.

Independent panel determinations

If your complaint was referred a code of conduct panel, the panel's determination report is tabled by the relevant council at the next practicable public meeting. Confidential addendums are tabled in a closed council meeting.

Panel determination reports

1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026

Resources and guidance

For complainants

For councils and general managers

For councillors

Process overview

A visual guide to the code of conduct framework, from lodging a complaint to the final determination.

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