Council Engages Independent Academic for Extensive Financial Review
Published on 09 April 2025
Leeton Shire Council wishes to announce it has engaged the services of Professor Joseph Drew from the University of Newcastle to conduct an independent and comprehensive review of Council’s financial position.
This significant step in Leeton Shire’s financial sustainability journey aims to provide a clear and accurate assessment of Council’s finances. Should the review find that Council is not financially viable, a second stage would be initiated later in the year. This stage would involve an extensive consultation process with the community, led by Councillors and Professor Drew, to explore cost-saving measures and potential service reductions as well as an application to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for a special rate variation (only if required).
Professor Joseph Drew is a leading scholar in local government finance, currently serving as Professor of Local Government Economics at the University of Newcastle's Institute for Regional Futures. He has an extensive academic background, including qualifications as an accountant, economist, natural law philosopher, and mathematician. Professor Drew has published numerous books and articles in top-tier journals and has consulted for various governments and organisations both in Australia and internationally.
Professor Drew will be visiting Leeton from Monday, 14 April, to Thursday, 17 April. During his visit, he will meet with staff and Councillors to gain a thorough understanding of Council’s assets, operations, and financial management. Following this, a comprehensive report will be prepared with the support of Professors Yunji Kim and Dr Masato Miyazaki and will be presented at the June Ordinary Council Meeting for the public’s consideration. Professor Drew has prepared a video detailing his upcoming visit which can be watched below.
Mayor Cr George Weston stated, "Leeton is one of an estimated 52% of local councils in NSW still struggling with financial sustainability and is one of only a handful that has never previously applied to IPART for a special rate variation. Professor Drew's independent review is a proactive measure to check we are operating responsibly and will help us ascertain how best to achieve the long-term financial health of our Council. We are committed to transparency and accountability in our financial management, and this review will provide valuable insights."
Mayor Weston also encouraged community members to engage with Professor Drew if they see him out and about during his visit. He's keen to connect with the community.
ENDS
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jackie Kruger
General Manager
T. (02) 6953 0911
E. jackiek@leeton.nsw.gov.au