Municipal Monitors' appointment extended at Kingston

Published on 30 June 2026

The City of Kingston remains focused on delivering for the community following the Victorian Government's decision to extend the appointment of Municipal Monitors Mr John Tanner AM and Mr John Watson until 14 August 2026.

The extension was advised late this afternoon by the Minister for Local Government, Paul Hamer, and will see the Monitors remain in place through the upcoming Melaleuca Ward by-election before providing their final report to the Minister.

Mr Tanner (August 2025) and Mr Watson (October 2025) were appointed by the Victorian Government to observe Council's governance and decision-making and have worked collaboratively with Councillors and Council officers over the past 10 months.

Throughout the Monitors' appointment, Council has continued to deliver essential services, progress major infrastructure projects and advance important community initiatives, while working openly and constructively with the Monitors.

Mayor Cr Georgina Oxley said Council remained focused on serving the Kingston community.

"Our priority continues to be delivering the services, infrastructure and advocacy our community relies on every day," Cr Oxley said.

"We will continue to work constructively with the Municipal Monitors throughout the extended appointment while maintaining our focus on strong governance and delivering positive outcomes for our community."

Chief Executive Officer Peter Bean said Council would continue to support the Monitors in their role while delivering for the Kingston community.

"Our organisation has worked openly and constructively with the Monitors throughout their appointment while continuing to deliver more than 100 services to our community," Mr Bean said.

"We remain committed to strong governance, transparency and accountability, while ensuring our community continues to receive the high-quality services, facilities and support they expect from their Council."

The Municipal Monitors are now expected to provide their final report to the Minister for Local Government following the conclusion of their appointment on 14 August 2026.