New information enhances transparency

A dedicated information hub has been launched to further enhance transparency and accountability at Noosa Council.

Mayor Clare Stewart said the Open Council webpage provides residents with easier access to a raft of council information.

“This council remains committed to being as open and transparent as possible,” she said.

“Much of the information has always been available on council’s website, but staff have now collated it and placed all relevant links and information in one section so the community has easier access and can better scrutinise how council spends ratepayers’ money.”

Information published on the webpage includes detailed financial records from council, purchasing data, current tenders, councillor expenses, capital program delivery schedule and allocation of council grants.

Cr Stewart and Deputy Mayor Frank Wilkie flagged the idea of an Open Council webpage, after attending a presentation at last year’s Local Government Association Queensland convention.

Cr Stewart said transparency, accountability and trust are at the heart of good governance.

“We are here to serve the community so it’s important we provide the mechanism for residents to monitor our decisions,” she said.

“The Open Council Hub has the full support of all councillors and demonstrates responsible and transparent decision-making.”

“I encourage residents to make use of the site to better understand how council operates and to stay well informed on a range of council’s financial decisions,” she said.

The Hub can be found here > https://www.noosa.qld.gov.au/open-council