How to become a Local Government Inspector

Local government inspectors are responsible for enforcing various council by-laws, parking and traffic regulations and provisions contained in the Local Government Act, and other legislation enforced by councils.

Personal requirements for a Local Government Inspector

Enjoy working outdoors and willing to work in all types of weather
Able to deal politely and, at times, firmly with members of the public
Good communication and conflict-resolution skills
Mature and confident
Patient, able to show initiative and be discrete
Able to cope with the physical demands of the job

Education & Training for a Local Government Inspector

You can work as a local government inspector without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications. You may like to consider a VET qualification. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.You can also become a local government inspector through a traineeship. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional information

To work as a local government inspector, you may need to undergo a National Police Check and medical assessment. You may also need a drivers licence for cars and/or motorcycles. Contact your local council for further information.

Duties & Tasks of a Local Government Inspector

Inspectors:

Talk with people who dispute council actions
Issue notices to cut back or remove plant growth that overhangs footpaths and streets, as well as undergrowth from premises
Issue notices to people found littering
Patrol streets and parking areas to check that vehicles are legally parked (have not exceeded maximum parking times, for example)
Issue notices to people parking illegally
Provide information to the police about stolen or abandoned vehicles
Issue notices to people in violation of environmental protection regulations (such as lighting an incinerator outside specified times or illegally burning substances such as rubber)
Catch stray and unregistered animals and, if possible, notify owners
Follow up complaints, conduct interviews and issue penalty notices to animal owners who are in violation of the various acts and by-laws
Keep records of issued notices and payment of penalties
Attend court to give evidence in support of any prosecutions
Give timely and courteous advice to the community.

Tasks

Receives and assesses information on potential new viruses.
Formulates reports and designs possible antibodies or vaccines.
Inspects accommodation.
Inspects that weighing machines are correctly calibrated.
Test viruses and other organisms of concerns.

Working conditions for a Local Government Inspector

Duties performed by inspectors vary among councils depending on where the council is and the inspector's experience and training. For example, an inspector employed by a coastal council is likely to perform duties relating to provisions contained in the Coastal Protection and Boating Acts. In some councils, inspectors perform both traffic and general inspection duties. Inspectors mainly work outdoors without direct supervision and may be required to wear a uniform. They may be required to work some evenings, weekends and public holidays, overtime or shifts. Inspectors have a considerable amount of contact with the public.

Employment Opportunities for a Local Government Inspector

Inspectors may be employed on a full-time, part-time or casual basis within metropolitan and regional local government authorities.

Specializations

Compliance Officer (Local Government)

A compliance officer (local government) performs site inspections, investigates and reports on new and existing land use and building activities, and resolves complaints. They liaise with solicitors, developers, property owners and occupiers to achieve compliance with local government legislation. Compliance officers need to be able to communicate effectively and have a broad skill and knowledge base.

Local Government Inspector

Average age
44
Future Growth
N/A
Gender Share
42% female
Average full-time
41 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Medium skill
Unemployment
Lower unemployment
Full-Time Share
84%
Employment Size
13,200
Employment by state
ACT: 3.6%
NSW: 29.1%
NT: 1.9%
QLD: 20.8%
SA: 6.7%
TAS: 2.0%
VIC: 23.3%
WA: 12.6%
Age brackets
15-19: 0.4%
20-24: 3.4%
25-34: 21.4%
35-44: 26.1%
45-54: 27.1%
55-59: 11.1%
60-64: 7.3%
65 and Over: 3.2%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 17%
Bachelor degree: 20.1%
Certificate III/IV: 27.1%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 8.6%
Year 10 and below: 9.2%
Year 11: 3.9%
Year 12: 14.2%