Jeff Gooding assigned as local government monitor at the Shire of Halls Creek

WA’s new local government inspector Tony Brown has appointed Jeff Gooding as local government monitor at the Shire of Halls Creek.

The former Shire of Derby West Kimberley commissioner commenced in the role on July 7 and will be at the shire for five months with possibility for that timeframe to be extended if needed.

Mr Gooding is tasked with monitoring practices and decisions at the Kimberley shire and to give advice to the council and administration on how to improve governance.

He will then provide a final report to the local government inspector December 18, including an action plan setting out any recommended improvements.

Mr Gooding brings more than 40 years of experience working in senior roles in local and state government to the role including time as chief executive officer and a board member at the Kimberley Development Commission in addition to his role as the Shire of Derby West Kimberley Ccommissioner in 2025.

Mr Brown said Mr Gooding’s experience in driving good governance across complex organisations will provide the stability the shire requires.

“The local government monitor will ensure the Shire of Halls Creek can provide the best service to their community by improving their governance and decision-making practices,” he said.

“Jeff Gooding PSM has a wealth of knowledge and experience in state and local government and is well respected in the Kimberley region.”

In a statement the Shire of Halls Creek said they were happy to work with Mr Gooding to improve governance.

“The Shire welcomes Mr Gooding’s appointment and will cooperate fully with him. The elected council remains in place and continues to make decisions and all shire services continue as normal,” they said.