Shire’s chief to be subject of audit after allegations

Allegations of bullying and harassment towards staff have been raised against Shire of Ashburton chief executive Neil Hartley.

Councillors voted at last month’s meeting to call an audit to address claims and the treatment of claims of bullying, harassment and poor treatment of staff, as well as the process of staff remuneration assessment.

The audit would cover Mr Hartley’s entire time in the job from October 2013 to October 2016.

Councillors resolved to obtain quotations from BDO Australia and GFG Consulting and to seek WALGA’s advice in preparing a list of independent auditors to carry out an internal review.

The auditor would audit all expenditure and invoicing of the 2014 WA Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements event and contract until July 2016 as well.

Them motion was carried unanimously by councillors.

The Shire of Ashburton have been contacted for comment.