Council & Politics
7 November, 2026
Does this pass the pub test?
COUNCILLOR expenses at Pyrenees Shire Council have come under scrutiny after one councillor claimed more than $37,000 in expenses over two financial years, largely for travel.
In Council's annual report, it was revealed that Cr Megan Phelan claimed $23,408 in expenses during the 2025-26 financial year, with $20,131 of that amount attributed to travel.
A further $14,350 was claimed by Cr Phelan in 2024-25, bringing her total expenses over the two years to $37,758.
It is understood Cr Phelan has residences in both Moonambel and Melbourne, with most of her travel expenses relating to trips from Melbourne to attend council-related events.
Deputy Mayor Rebecca Wardlaw claimed $13,093 in expenses last financial year, including travel and other costs.
A large portion of Cr Wardlaw's expenses are understood to have been associated with travel and accommodation while representing council at a conference.
Cr Tanya Kehoe claimed $11,829, including $6,247 in childcare expenses.
Mayor Damian Ferrari's expenses totalled $6,615, while Cr Simon Toll did not submit any expense claims.
The claims are in addition to councillors' annual allowances.
Pyrenees Shire councillors receive an annual allowance of approximately $28,000, while the Deputy Mayor receives $40,614 and the Mayor $70,000.
The Pyrenees Advocate is not suggesting any councillor has acted illegally or breached council policy, and acknowledges that expense claims are subject to council guidelines and legislative requirements.
However, the figures have raised questions among some within council and the wider community about whether tighter controls and greater scrutiny of councillor and staff expenses are needed to ensure ratepayer funds are being spent appropriately.
The Advocate asked council's Interim Chief Executive Officer Sally Jones to explain the higher expense claims, particularly those relating to travel.
In a written response, Ms Jones said Cr Phelan's travel claims had been submitted based on advice provided to her at the beginning of her council term in 2024.
"Council is responsible for administering councillor expense claims and providing guidance on relevant policy and legislative requirements. Cr Phelan's travel expense claims were submitted based on advice previously sought and received from council," Ms Jones said.
Ms Jones acknowledged that expenses could differ considerably between councillors.
"Councillor expenses can vary depending on individual circumstances, travel requirements and the nature and frequency of council-related activities undertaken, and we acknowledge the variation in expenditure between councillors."
She said council was currently reviewing how its expenses policy was being applied.
"Council is currently reviewing the application of its Councillor Expenses and Support Policy to ensure travel claims are assessed consistently and in accordance with the policy and relevant legislative requirements.
"Council is committed to ensuring these processes are applied consistently, with clear guidance and appropriate support provided to councillors to ensure they fully understand their entitlements and obligations," Ms Jones said.