Full Breakdown
City of Perth Council Under New Inspector-Led Inquiry
By Drooid · · How we work
Background: Ongoing Governance Turmoil
The City of Perth has been described as “dysfunctional” and “diabolical” after internal conflicts surfaced in late 2025. An acting chief executive resigned in November after labeling a workplace-culture review by Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds unlawful, prompting Reynolds to request an inspector-led review. In 2018 the entire council was stood down following years of scandal and infighting, a precedent cited in the current investigation.
Monitor Appointment and Findings
In January 2026 Local Government Inspector Tony Brown appointed former Kwinana mayor Carol Adams as an independent monitor. Adams’ five-month assignment concluded on June 19, 2026. Her unpublished report contained 18 recommendations addressing the “conflict spiral” between the mayor and the chief executive and highlighted “fractured working relationships” and “ongoing governance issues.”
Scope, Timeline, and Cost of the New Inquiry
Brown announced a fresh inquiry that will run for approximately three months and cost about $120,000. The investigation can recommend suspension or dismissal of the council or individual members, but any final action rests with the state’s local-government minister. The final review is expected to be presented behind closed doors on Monday evening.
Data & Statistics
- 25 complaints involving elected members have been logged since the start of 2026.
- $7.2 million was spent on a previous two-year inquiry; the current probe is framed as a “short and effective” alternative.
Official Statements & Responses
- Brown warned the inquiry could lead to recommendations for dismissing the council or specific councillors, emphasizing that any such decision would be made by the minister.
- Council-appointed chief executive Michelle Reynolds was suspended in May after a briefing on the monitor’s findings; Minister Hannah Beazley responded with anger, raising the possibility of council amalgamations.
Criticism & Opposition
East Perth resident Vicki Raniszewski criticised the lack of transparency, noting that more than two months had passed since the monitor’s appointment ended without any public announcement of findings or recommendations.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- The monitor’s report remains unpublished, while Brown has indicated that the upcoming inquiry report will be public, creating a gap between confidential findings and expected disclosure.
- Sources differ on the exact number of recommendations: one account cites 18 recommendations in the leaked January report, while the full content of the monitor’s report has not been released for verification.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There are fractured working relationships and ongoing governance issues at the city,” — Mr Brown
What’s Next
The inspector’s final report will be delivered behind closed doors on Monday evening, after which the local-government minister will consider any recommendations for council or individual dismissals. The council’s suspended chief executive and broader governance reforms remain pending further action.