While Local Government Association Tasmania chief executive Katrena Stephenson said she could not comment on individual cases, she said issues of bullying and harassment are taken very seriously by councils.

"While a Code of Conduct can provide information on appropriate behaviour and examples of breaches of responsibility, the presence of a Code of Conduct does not, in itself, necessarily improve behaviour," Dr Stephenson said. "This is why there is a broad range of sanctions, including training."

However, when Local Government Minister Mark Shelton was asked if the code was working if it was "not necessarily improving behaviour", he said the framework was developed and recently reviewed in consultation with LGAT.

He said the review ensured the framework has a mechanism to deal with complaints about the conduct of local government representatives.

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Dr Stephenson said while there was a recent review, and amendments, to the code of conduct provisions in the Local Government Act, there is some opportunity to further consider matters raised through code of conduct determinations.

LGAT has provided Tasmanian councils with a range of tools and training for staff and councillors.

Dr Stephenson said councils have a legal duty to take all reasonable steps to provide a safe workplace including one that is free of bullying, discrimination, harassment, victimisation and other inappropriate workplace behaviour. The code process aimed to raise and maintain a standard of behaviour and conduct of councillors.

"LGAT promotes workplace practices that treat all persons with dignity, courtesy and respect," she said. "Tasmanian councils remain committed to this goal."

The Australian Local Government Association said it does not comment on individual councils, nor on states and territory's local government policies.

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