All local governments are required to undertake an annual review of the Chief Executive Officer’s (CEO) performance. This is a requirement under the Local Government Act 1995 and is given effect through the Model Standards for CEO Recruitment, Performance and Termination.
The Shire of Harvey has adopted Policy 1.1.16 – CEO Performance Management, which sets out how Council will meet its statutory obligation under section 5.38 of the Act. This policy ensures that the review of the CEO’s performance is transparent, impartial, evidence-based, and aligned with the Shire’s Strategic Community Plan and Corporate Business Plan. It requires that the process be documented, structured, and fair, with input from all Council Members. The Policy also provides for the engagement of an independent facilitator to guide the process and assist Council in setting and reviewing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the CEO.
In addition, the Shire’s Policy 1.1.14 – Standards for CEO Recruitment, Performance and Termination sets the minimum statutory requirements for the CEO’s recruitment, performance review, and, if necessary, termination.
In addition, Division 3 of this Policy requires that Council and the CEO agree on the review process and performance criteria, that the process is impartial and transparent, and that outcomes are formally endorsed by Council and communicated to the CEO in writing.
To facilitate this process, Council has established a CEO Review Committee. The Committee’s role is to oversee the performance review in line with the adopted policies, ensure compliance with the Act, and make recommendations to Council on the outcome of the review.
This framework ensures that the performance of the CEO is assessed against agreed KPIs and the Shire’s strategic priorities, while also maintaining accountability, good governance, and continuous improvement in leadership for the benefit of the Shire of Harvey community.
The CEO KPI's below are reviewed annually, and in accordance with the Local Government Act 1995, however Shire of Harvey Councillors are responsible for managing the CEO's performance during the year.