Speaking at the Local Government Managers’ Association forum today, Mr Page said the Model Code of Conduct was an evolving document which was in need of amendments.

"The Model Code of Conduct sets the minimum standards of ethical and other conduct that all Council officials are required to observe when fulfilling their work obligations," Mr Page said.

"The Model Code, which has been operating since 2005, informs all NSW communities of the standards of conduct they are entitled to expect of their Council officials.

Some of the things being considered include:

1. The role of general managers in investigating Model Code of Conduct complaints
2. The costs involved in Code investigations
3. Other options for managing complaints, such as mediation and negotiation
4. Misuse of the Code for political point-scoring

"The Division of Local Government believes that there remains scope for further refinement and improvement and I think that option should be investigated," Mr Page said.

"The Division has identified, or has had brought to its attention, a number of areas where the Model Code has not operated in the manner in which it was intended.

"I have requested the Division of Local Government to issue a discussion paper on the Model Code which will seek the opinions of stakeholders and members of the public who are interested in suggesting revisions for the Code.

"The discussion paper will be available to view from Wednesday at the website of the Division of Local Government, at www.dlg.nsw.gov.au

Media: Steven Graham, Minister’s office, 9230 2796