Approval Date: 5 August, 2024

Background

Council Policy development has a key role to play in the good governance of Latrobe City Council and supports the objectives and functions of a Council described in the Local Government Act 2020.

Council Policy sets the broad parameters for guiding and setting the boundaries to influence the actions and operations of Latrobe City Council. Council policies are designed to provide clear, unambiguous guidelines and to provide continuity and a consistent point of accountability for Latrobe City Council.

Objectives

Policy making will follow set procedures to ensure the efficacy of the process and the overall policy structure.

2.2 Generally, policies will be developed in response to potential future use or in advance of an event rather than in response to an event, crisis or problem.

2.3 Policies will support and be consistent with the current Latrobe City Council Plan and other strategic plans.

2.4 Policies will provide the broad parameters for guiding and setting the boundaries to influence the actions and operations of Latrobe City Council.

2.5 Policies will not provide directions in relation to the exercise of powers as prohibited of Councillors by s.124 of the Local 
Government Act 2020, specifically:

• In the exercise of a delegated power, performance of a delegated duty or function;
• In the exercise of a power or performance of a duty or function by an authorised officer;
• In the exercise of a power or performance of a duty or function in an office or position held under another Act; and
• Advice provided to Council or a delegated committee.

Scope

3.1 This policy applies to the development of new Council policies or the review of existing Council policies, it does not apply to the development of Operational policies.

3.2 This policy applies to any Council policy developed to achieve or further the purpose, objectives, role or functions of Latrobe City Council in accordance with the overarching governance principles of the Local Government Act 2020, including:

• Council decisions are to be made and actions taken in accordance with the relevant law;
• Priority is to be given to achieving the best outcomes for the municipal community, including future generations;
• The economic, social and environmental sustainability of the municipal district, including mitigation and planning for climate change risks, is to be promoted;
• The municipal community is to be engaged in strategic planning and strategic decision making;
• Innovation and continuous improvement is to be pursued;
• The ongoing financial viability of the Council is to be ensured;
• The transparency of Council decisions, actions and information is to be ensured.

Further Information

View the full policy below;