IBAC Regional Forum: Corruption risks in local government

In Victoria, councillors and council officers must actively prevent, detect, and report corruption, fraud, and misconduct. Attend this free in-person forum with senior staff from key integrity agencies to learn how to identify, prevent and manage integrity risks, and where to get further advice and support.

IBAC, Victorian Ombudsman and Local Government Inspectorate staff will visit the Mansfield area in May to educate and support local government staff, integrity and governance officers, administrative officers, councillors and public sector leaders within Mansfield Shire and surrounding council areas.

Register now for this free, in-person forum, which will focus on the unique corruption risks that smaller councils face, including managing conflicts of interest, misuse of information and resources, improper influence and vulnerabilities in procurement.

This forum will feature short presentations, discussion and Q&A with:

• Colleen Bell, IBAC Deputy Commissioner

• Michael Stefanovic, Chief Municipal Inspector and David Walker, Manager Investigations, Local Government Inspectorate

• Kerryn Ellis, Deputy Ombudsman Corporate, Victorian Ombudsman.

Mansfield Shire Council CEO Kirsten Alexander will also present an opening address.

Who should attend: Councillors and council staff working in administration, information management, governance and integrity from Mansfield Shire and surrounds including Baw Baw, Yarra Ranges, Wellington, Alpine, Wangaratta, Benalla, Strathbogie and Murrindindi shires.

Cost: Free.

Morning tea will be provided. 

Please note this is an in-person event only.

Registrations close 1 May 2026.

Arrival is from 9:00am, with forum commencing at 9:30am.

The venue is wheelchair accessible, with the entrance, venue and accessible bathrooms all located on ground level.   

If you have additional accessibility or dietary requirements, please let us know during registration.

For more information or with specific questions contact us at engage@ibac.vic.gov.au or 1800 422 284.

The event is taking place on the lands of the Taungurung people.

Banner image: Rainer Reinbold (2016) Sunset from the lookout hut on Mt Buffalo in the Victorian high country. Accessed via Flickr.