The Local Government Investigations and Compliance Inspectorate (‘LGI’) is Victoria’s integrity agency for local councils. It investigates complaints about councillors, council staff, and councils under the Local Government Act 2020 (Vic). It is led by the Chief Municipal Inspector.
What types of complaints can you make?
You can complain to LGI if you believe a council, councillor, or council staff member has broken the Local Government Act, acted dishonestly, or behaved inappropriately in their role. This includes:
Misuse of position or council powers:
- A councillor using their position to benefit themselves or someone else.
- Sharing confidential information or using it for personal gain.
- Trying to influence staff decisions or act outside their authority.
- Using public funds or council property for personal use.
Improper direction or interference:
- A councillor directing or pressuring council staff instead of going through the CEO.
- Interfering in matters that are the CEO’s responsibility (like staffing or operations).
- Improper use of council resources
- Using council vehicles, phones, or money for private or political purposes.
Conflicts of interest and transparency:
- A councillor or staff member taking part in decisions that personally benefit them, their family, or associates.
- Failing to declare financial, property, or business interests.
- Failing to disclose gifts, donations, or other benefits.
Electoral misconduct:
- Breaking election rules, such as bribing voters, publishing unauthorised materials, or failing to report donations.
- Running for council when not legally eligible (for example, due to bankruptcy or criminal conviction).
- Tampering with votes or threatening voters.
Information and confidentiality breaches:
- Leaking or sharing confidential council information without permission.
- Inappropriate conduct or eligibility.
- Ongoing bullying, disrespect, or other serious or repeated misconduct.
- Acting as a councillor when disqualified or suspended.
Obstructing council staff:
- Preventing or threatening council staff when they are carrying out inspections or other lawful duties.
Jurisdiction:
LGI operates investigates complaints about Victorian councils, councillors, and staff.
Time Limits:
- There are no fixed time limits to make a complaint, but it is best to complain as soon as possible.
- Old matters may not be investigated if evidence is missing.
LGI will not deal with complaints about:
- Poor service by councils (bins, roads, rates, pet management, etc.).
- Lawful council decisions, even if unpopular.
- Councillor rudeness or bullying unless it breaches the Act.
- Employment issues involving staff (e.g. pay, dismissal, HR matters). Personal disputes with councillors unrelated to council duties.
- Planning/building permits unless linked to corruption or conflict of interest.
- Matters already handled by another authority (IBAC, Ombudsman, VCAT, etc.).
- State/federal government decisions or services.
- Political or policy disagreements.
- Complaints too old or without evidence.
Who can you make a complaint against?
You can make a complaint against:
- Councillors
- Council staff
- Senior council employees (e.g. CEOs)
- Advisors/committee members
- Council election candidates
- Victorian local councils (as entities)
Are you eligible to make a complaint?
Who can make a complaint?
Anyone can complain, even if you don’t live in the area or aren’t directly affected, as long as you provide enough information to support the complaint.
Before you lodge a complaint:
You do not need to raise the issue with the council before making a complaint with LGI.
Can you complain on behalf of someone?
Yes, complaints can be made on behalf of someone else (e.g. family member, client, community member). If possible, their consent should be included.
What can this body do to help?
LGI may:
- Issue warnings.
- Refer councillors to conduct panels (which can reprimand, suspend, or direct apologies).
- Prosecute breaches in court (penalties include large fines or up to 5 years’ jail).
- Apply to VCAT to stand down or disqualify councillors for misconduct or serious offences.
- Recommend changes to council processes.
How to prepare your complaint:
Personal Details:
Provide your name, email, phone number. If you would like to remain anonymous, you do not need to provide your details.
Respondent’s Details:
Provide details about the council or person involved.
Relevant Facts:
Provide details about what happened, dates, meetings, incidents, witnesses, and any other relevant information.
Lodging your complaint and next steps:
Where to Lodge a Complaint:
- Online: Complete LGI’s online form HERE (preferred).
- Email: inspectorate@lgi.vic.gov.au.
- Phone 1800 469 359.
Receipt and Acknowledgement:
Usually provided within 10 working days.
More information:
Refer to the factsheet provided below for more information.
