By Charlene Gatt
MARIBYRNONG councillors claimed a modest expenses bill in the last quarter, racking up more than $5500 in mobile phone calls, child care and conferences.
Councillor expenses for July to September this year shows Mayor Sarah Carter shelled out $2670 on flights, accommodation and registration to attend the Urban Congestion Summit in Brisbane last month.
Cr Carter had the biggest expenses bill at $2928, followed by Catherine Cumming, who spent $1462 on child care and mobile phone usage.
The council detailed councillors’ expenses at last week’s ordinary council meeting.
Under section 74 A and 74 B of the Local Government Act, councillors are paid an annual allowance of $20,200 each year and can also claim on any money spent while undertaking their duties as councillors.
The mayor’s annual allowance is $62,500.
Councillors are also provided with a home computer, email and internet connection, fax machine and blackberry for the duration of their term in office.
Councillors’ expenses are released quarterly. Residents can view a breakdown of expenses at www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
