MOST READ ^^ A councillor who criticised a million-dollar partnership deal with the Parramatta Eels has had a major win in the NSW Supreme Court…..

MOST READ ^^ A councillor who criticised a million-dollar partnership deal with the Parramatta Eels has had a major win in the NSW Supreme Court…..

In a notable legal victory, a councillor who publicly criticized a lucrative partnership deal between the City of Parramatta and the Parramatta Eels has secured a significant win in the NSW Supreme Court. The case centered around the councillor’s objections to a proposed agreement valued at around one million dollars, which aimed to promote the football club and foster community engagement through sponsorship and facility collaborations.

 

The councillor had voiced concerns that the partnership lacked transparency and questioned whether public funds were being used appropriately. They argued that the deal favored commercial interests over community needs and demanded greater accountability from the council. Their criticisms gained widespread attention, sparking debate over the propriety of the partnership and the processes involved in its approval.

 

The council, on the other hand, defended the deal as a strategic move to boost local engagement, promote sports, and support local businesses through the sponsorship. They claimed that all proper procedures were followed, and that the partnership was in the best interest of the community.

 

However, the councillor challenged the legality of the decision, arguing that proper consultation and due diligence were not adequately conducted before approving the deal. They filed a judicial review in the NSW Supreme Court, seeking to have the partnership agreement set aside on grounds of procedural unfairness and alleged misfeasance.

 

The court’s decision ultimately favored the councillor. Justice found that the council had indeed failed to follow proper procedures, including insufficient consultation with stakeholders and inadequate disclosure of the terms of the partnership. The judgment emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in local government dealings, particularly when public funds are involved.

 

This ruling represents a significant victory for those advocating for greater oversight and transparency in government decisions. It underscores that local councils must adhere strictly to procedural fairness when entering into financial agreements, especially those involving substantial public funds and community interests.

 

The case also serves as a reminder of the critical role that elected representatives and community members play in holding authorities accountable. While the partnership with the Parramatta Eels may continue in some form, the court’s decision highlights the need for future deals to be more transparent, properly scrutinized, and conducted in accordance with legal standards.