Shoalhaven City Council risks losing its authority to make hiring decisions following the appointment of former NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance as general manager. The Office of Local Government has launched a separate probe into his recruitment process.
Appointment Sparks Controversy
The South Coast council revealed in October that it selected Constance, previously the MP for Bega and a twice-defeated federal Liberal candidate for Gilmore, to lead the organization.
The move drew sharp criticism from federal Gilmore MP Fiona Phillips, who narrowly secured the seat for Labor in May. Phillips declared she had “lost all confidence” in the council and Mayor Patricia White.
“It reeks of jobs for Liberal mates, and does not pass the pub test. It is certainly not in the best interests of Shoalhaven ratepayers,” Phillips stated.
Minister Imposes Performance Order
Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig directed the Office of Local Government to examine the hiring process. He has since proposed a performance improvement order, giving the council 14 days to respond.
Hoenig stated that the Office of Local Government identified concerns over the “integrity of recruitment processes within Shoalhaven City Council.”
“I have proposed making a performance improvement order in relation to the matters that have been raised. The council has 14 days to respond as to whether I should make the proposed order,” his statement reads.
Council Prepares Response
The council schedules an extraordinary meeting on Friday to review the order. A report to councillors, endorsed by Constance, urges acceptance of the draft.
A performance improvement order enables early action to address emerging issues at a council.
Mayor Patricia White, from the Shoalhaven Independent Group, endorsed the hire, noting Constance’s “commitment to the Shoalhaven and his proven leadership make him an outstanding choice to guide our organisation.”
Key Provisions of the Draft Order
The draft cites “sufficient evidence to raise questions about the transparency, impartiality and integrity of the recruitment process leading to the appointment of Mr Andrew Constance as general manager.”
It warns that unresolved concerns could harm relations between elected officials, the general manager, and staff morale, amid internal and external backlash, including over another managerial hire.
Future recruitments must involve a panel of at least three members, including one independent of the council. The council must also submit details to the Office of Local Government, covering applicant numbers, interview dates, and counts.
