Council should redo CEO hire to meet ‘pub test’: Logan whistleblower
Sydney Morning Herald
by Matt DennienFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A former chief executive of Logan City Council has raised concerns about irregularities in the recruitment process for Redland City Council's new CEO, Louise Rusan, who was appointed despite not being shortlisted by the external recruiter or panel. Sharon Kelsey, a prominent whistleblower and current member of Transparency International Australia’s national whistleblowers advisory committee, argues that the hiring process failed to meet transparency standards outlined in the Local Government Act. She believes a full redo of the recruitment is necessary to ensure fairness and restore public trust.
Kelsey, who was dismissed in 2018 after reporting misconduct by former Logan mayor Luke Smith, pointed out that leaked documents reveal a staffer under Rusan's supervision chaired the selection panel, and a closed-door councillor vote altered the agreed process. These actions raised internal concerns about political influence, with one key councillor speaking out. The external recruiter also quit after expressing doubts about staff involvement in the panel.
Redland City Council maintains that the appointment was consistent with Local Government Act principles and supported by two external panel members, an appointed recruiter, and legal advice. A spokesperson emphasized that formal resolutions were made in open sessions, though recruitment decisions are considered administrative matters outside the jurisdiction of the Office of the Independent Assessor unless misconduct is alleged.
Kelsey’s comments highlight broader concerns about transparency in local government hiring processes. As a former executive director at Victoria’s Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission and the first female chief executive of Logan City Council, her critique carries significant weight. The situation underscores the importance of fair recruitment practices to ensure public confidence in leadership appointments.
This matter is particularly relevant for readers interested in governance transparency and accountability. It raises questions about whether internal processes can effectively address concerns when external oversight bodies are not involved. Kelsey’s call for a transparent redo reflects broader calls for integrity in local government operations, making this an important story for those following issues of corruption and leadership in public sectors.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/23/2026