Balranald Shire Council was appointed an Administrator yesterday following a decision from the Governor of New South Wales, Margaret Beazley.

The decision follows the release of a report from the Minister for Local Government, Shelley Hancock MP which confirmed 'widespread disfunction in the Council and a failure to serve the interests of the community'.

The Council has been under a public inquiry since January 2019, with public hearings held in July last year to investigate the Council's conduct.

Michael Colreavy has been appointed as the Administrator for a period of four years, until the September 2024 local government elections.

Mr. Colreavy replaces the elected Mayor and Councillors, whose offices were declared vacant by the Governor.

He will act as the elected Council body and perform the functions and responsibilities of the Council. Council management will now report to the Administrator.

Local Government NSW President Councillor Linda Scott has taken issue with the four-year administration period, claiming that it will take power away from the Balranald community, as the local election scheduled for this September would not go ahead.

"Four years is simply too long for the Balranald community to have to wait for a strong council, understanding of local needs and issues, and representative of their community,” Cr Scott said.

“Experience shows, an effective and strong partnership between the local government sector and the State Government is the best way to drive positive policy outcomes for the people of NSW."

In a statement released by the Balranald Shire Council, they say;

"Mr Colreavy’s appointment will provide independent leadership with priorities to restore good governance; working with the existing Balranald Shire Council executive team, restore good relationships with the community, and ensure that the community’s voice is heard and represented."