Council workers busted for hour-long coffee breaks in Melbourne

Members of the Whitehorse City Council in Melbourne have been sprung for taking hour-long coffee breaks in a “serious breach of trust” to the community.

Whitehorse Ratepayers and Residents Association spokesman Colin Carter told News Corp that their behaviour was unacceptable.

He claimed he witnessed workers arrive in their council cars several times to Blackburn North Shopping Centre, before sitting around for an hour. He took a photo of the shopping centre meetings.

He has reported the findings to the council.

“A few passing questions of vendors and frequent locals told me this was a routine daily event and over a very long time, normally with an average of about five employees participating,” Mr Carter said.

Mr Carter blamed “lax management” for the “rort” displayed by the council members.

Whitehorse City Council chief executive Noelene Duff told the Whitehorse Leader an investigation was immediately conducted.

“The officers concerned were disciplined in a suitable industrial manner and officers reminded of their duties,” she said.

“Council appreciates being advised of this matter because it has enabled us to improve our standard of staff service to our residents.”