PORT Stephens Council has announced the elected members professional development and expenses report for the first half of the year.

In the period of 1 January 2022 to 30 June 2022, costs incurred by the Elected Members which have been reconciled are included in the report, alongside total costs incurred to Council by Elected Members (including their monthly allowance).

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

Expenses for reimbursement include Councillors’ mobile calls, internet, intrastate and interstate travel expenses, accommodation, conferences and training, partner expenses, ICT devices, stationery, awards/ceremonies and dinners, childcare costs, uniforms and professional development.

Additionally, each Councillor is awarded $24,810 annually and the Mayor is granted $86,090 annually as a salary.

Mayor Ryan Palmer has been paid a total of $6,028.67 for professional development and $59,841.02 for total expenses for the first half of 2022.

Cr Steve Tucker was paid $4551.55 for professional development and $24,998.40 for 2022 expenses.

Cr Glen Dunkley was paid $4573.85 for professional development and $24,182.02 for expenses.

Cr Giacomo Arnott has been paid $3071.77 for professional development and $21,370.48 for expenses.

Cr Leah Anderson has been paid $2481.82 for professional development and $22,056.28 for total expenses.

Cr Chris Doohan was paid $3604.65 for professional development and reimbursed $20,540.11, including salary.

Cr Matthew Bailey was paid $2211.10 for development and $20,816.24 for reimbursements, whilst Crs Francis and Wells were paid $1549.92 and $2270.60 for development.

They were reimbursed $19,297.40 and $16,918.32 for salaries and expenses respectively.

Cr Peter Kafer had the least Councillor expenses with $278.10 for professional development and $13,226.86 for salary and reimbursements.

By Tara CAMPBELL