A candidate in the 2016 Brimbank council election has been charged with failing to submit a campaign donation return.
Nick Nicolaou ran as a candidate in the Taylors Ward at the most recent election, receiving 2.73 per cent of first preference votes. The ward is now represented by mayor Margaret Giudice, former deputy mayor Georgina Papafotiou, and Bruce Lancashire.
Candidates are required to submit campaign donation returns when they receive any gifts or donations over $500, regardless of whether or not they are elected. The local government inspectorate has commenced legal action against 15 candidates statewide, including Mr Nicolaou.
Following the 2016 council elections, the inspectorate identified 290 candidates across Victoria who had failed to submit a campaign donation return by the December 1, 2016 deadline, however most were able to comply once prompted by the inspectorate. Chief Municipal Inspector David Wolf said the transparency of candidates’ campaigns was a key part of the election process.
“A key factor in the integrity of
local government is ensuring the transparency on who has financially supported candidates and councillors,” Mr Wolf said. “It is important that we pursue these matters and allow the courts to determine the seriousness of the offence.”
Fines for failing to declare campaign donations can reach as high as $9327.60.
Mr Nicolaou will face Sunshine Magistrates Court on March 5.
