A report found former Whittlesea mayor Aidan McLindon’s conduct harmed council unity and staff, prompting calls for reform and his suspension challenge.

A 14 October report found former Whittlesea mayor Aidan McLindon’s conduct was detrimental and distracting, damaging council cohesion and leading to nine staff reporting psychological distress over his public comments, including offensive remarks about LGBTQIA+ and First Peoples communities. The inquiry criticized the chief executive for poor conflict management and noted councillors’ concerns, describing McLindon as a “wrecking ball.” McLindon denies wrongdoing, claims procedural unfairness, and challenges the suspension in Supreme Court. The report recommends training, monitoring, and legislative changes to allow removal of a failing mayor, with the council reviewing findings to improve governance and staff wellbeing.