OLG advises investigation not required into Bioelektra agreement

Published on 25 January 2024

The CEO of Council has received a response from The Office of Local Government (OLG) concerning the investigation into the now terminated project agreement with Bioelektra Australia for the West Nowra Resource Recovery Park.

Council provided comprehensive information and records with respect to the project including the phases from pre-procurement to the termination of the contract with Bioelektra when it was requested by OLG last year.

In concluding the investigation, the OLG has acknowledged that “Council has undertaken what appears to be a comprehensive internal investigation” and advised Council that “Given the work that has been done by Council to understand what occurred and its declared commitment to enact improvements based on what has been learnt, OLG does not intend to conduct its own investigation under section 430 of the Local Government Act 1993.”

Council has committed to improving its project management framework and financial and asset management policies and has already commenced the creation of a specialised unit to oversee the management of projects within the organisation.

Outcomes of investigations into the waste management options available, including alternative waste technology, will be presented and reported to Council once completed.  Updates and opportunities for residents to have a say will be promoted as they become available.

Council will continue to keep the OLG updated as and when appropriate.

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