Victoria’s local government watchdog has created new guidelines to help councils comply with state legislation.

The Local Government Inspectorate says it released the new resources after CEOs, councillors and governance staff called for clearer information about what the Local Government Act 2020 means for them.

The resources comprise fact sheets, summaries of reports, case studies, best practice policies for councils, risk areas and how to minimise risk.

They also include information on the role of the Public Interest Disclosure Co-ordinator and how to refer complaints to integrity agencies, as well as case studies of breaches of the Local Government Act.

Other areas covered include  

• Sale of land

• Government grants

• Corporate credit cards

• Community grants

• Personal interest returns

• Procurement

• Governance culture

• Delegated Committees

• Employment and performance of CEOs and senior officers.

The inspectorate says it will be increasing the amount of material available in coming months and has invited suggestions for additional resources.