Statement from Mayor and Acting CEO

Published on 01 February 2025

Following the media statement made by Council on 25 January regarding an unscheduled meeting of Council, Aaron van Egmond remains suspended as CEO of Hobsons Bay City Council.

Councillors became aware of concerns about safety in the workplace, as well as the CEO’s fulfilment of his duties and responsibilities more broadly.

Councillors continue to take these matters very seriously and made the decision to suspend Aaron van Egmond, pending further investigations, following thorough and careful consideration.

At that same meeting, Council resolved that Director Sustainable Communities, Rachel Sarah Lunn, would undertake the Acting CEO position at this time.

The Acting CEO has taken immediate steps to seek to ensure the safety of staff and the commencement of a fair, comprehensive and respectful investigation into a range of concerns, as well as supporting the continuity of Council Services.

Council requests that the names or other identifying information of Council staff, and speculation as to matters under investigation, are not published in the interests of protecting staff safety and providing procedural fairness.

Given the sensitivity of these matters for all concerned, Council can make no further comment at this time. All media enquiries should be directed to media@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au.