Statement from the City of Whittlesea

The City of Whittlesea has today been advised by the Minister for Local Government the Hon. Nick Staikos that following the receipt of a report by the Municipal Monitors and other information, Councillor Aidan McLindon has been suspended as a Councillor at the City of Whittlesea for a period of six months under section 229A (1) of the Local Government Act 2020, effective immediately. 

The Minister has advised that ‘for the duration of a suspension, Councillor McLindon ceases to be a councillor and must not perform any of the functions and duties or exercise the power of a councillor. This includes attending council meetings, delegated committees or attending council premises.’ 

Council notes the Minister has also announced a Commission of Inquiry into the City of Whittlesea. The independent inquiry will allow a detailed examination of matters affecting good governance at the council, and any legislative, regulatory or other reform needed to address the issues that have occurred at the council since the elections in October 2024.

Council welcomes any process that seeks to further strengthen good governance and support the safety and wellbeing of the Council and staff. 

The City of Whittlesea will continue to deliver the important services, programs and facilities its community needs during the Inquiry. 

Mr McLindon was elected as the representative for Kirrip Ward in October 2024 and appointed as the Mayor of the City of Whittlesea in November 2024.  

As a result of this suspension the position of Mayor becomes vacant. In accordance with section 26 of the Local Government Act 2020 Council is required to fill the Mayoral vacancy within one month, to serve the remainder of the current mayoral term – until Tuesday 18 November 2025.  

Deputy Mayor Cr Daniela Zinni will perform the duties of the Mayor until a new Mayor is elected at a future Council Meeting. 

During the period of suspension, the role of Ward Councillor for Kirrip will remain vacant and Mr McLindon will not receive any allowance. 

Residents of Kirrip Ward are advised to direct their enquiries to other ward Councillors during the period of suspension. Contact details for Councillors are available on Council’s website.

Mr McLindon will be eligible to resume his role of Councillor from Friday 17 October 2025.