On 9 July, the NSW Office of Local Government made a disciplinary decision about Councillor Anthony Irvine. The decision was that he be suspended from his role as a councillor for 28 days, and that he provide a written apology for breaches of the Code of Conduct and the Social Media Policy. The reasons for the decision are set out in a Statement of Reasons dated 9 July 2026. Councillor Irvine has appealed that decision to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT), an independent tribunal that hears appeals of this kind. He also asked the Tribunal to put the decision on hold until the appeal is decided. This is known as a stay. On 22 July, after hearing from both sides, the Tribunal granted the stay. What this means: The suspension and the apology requirement are on hold and do not apply while the appeal is under way. Councillor Irvine is able to carry out his duties as a councillor in the usual way until the appeal is decided. It is important to understand that the stay is a procedural step only. The Tribunal has not yet considered whether the disciplinary decision was right or wrong. That question will be decided at the appeal hearing. What happens next: The appeal is listed to be heard by the Tribunal on 26 November. After the hearing, the Tribunal will decide whether the disciplinary decision stands, is changed, or is set aside. The appeal is between Councillor Irvine and the NSW Office of Local Government. Council is not a party to the proceedings. Because the matter is now before the Tribunal, Council will not be making any further comment. Office of Local Government Website - https://www.olg.nsw.gov.au/ Temora Shire Council
