Mornington Peninsula Shire Council’s meeting on 23 September 2025 ended in controversy when a motion to introduce councillor term limits — seen by many as a swipe at long-serving Cr David Gill, who has been vocal against much of the decisions and behaviour of Mayor Anthony Marsh and the so-called “bloc of six” — sparked heated exchanges and led to Gill walking out of the chamber.
Motion for Term Limits
The meeting’s final item, moved by Cr Bruce Ranken and seconded by Cr Stephen Batty, called on Council to write to the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) urging it to introduce a three-term cap for councillors — a maximum of 12 years’ service.
In moving the motion, Cr Ranken compared councils to corporate boards, arguing that regular renewal was needed to maintain accountability and bring in new voices.
“12 years is a substantial period of service. It allows any councillor the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution… but beyond that point, we must ask, does the community benefit from the same voices occupying these positions indefinitely?” he said.
Ranken cited governance standards in the corporate and not-for-profit sectors, where fixed terms and succession planning are common, suggesting local government should adopt similar practices.
Gill Shut Down
Tensions escalated when councillors moved to close debate and put the motion to a vote. Cr Gill, who had reportedly circulated an amendment before the meeting, attempted to raise a point of order but was overruled by the Mayor.
Gill tried to argue that governance rules required the Chair to consider whether fair debate had occurred before closing discussion. His objection was dismissed, and the vote proceeded.
Onlookers told STPL News the process left several councillors shut out of debate.
“They just completely shut the other councillors out and they did it publicly,” one said.
Frustrated, Gill eventually left the chamber before the final vote was taken.
Voting Breakdown
The motion carried with support from Crs Williams, Pingiaro, Allan, Ranken, Batty and Mayor Anthony Marsh. Opposing votes came from Crs Stephens, Patten and Binyon.
Cr Gill’s absence was formally noted before the vote was finalised.
Aimed at Long-Serving Councillors?
Observers suggested the motion may have been directed at Gill, often described by supporters as a “people’s champion” and one of the most consistent opponents of what critics call bloc voting in the chamber.
Gill, who has served multiple terms and remains one of Council’s longest-serving representatives, has frequently voiced concerns over transparency, governance and unpopular decisions made under Mayor Marsh’s leadership.
What Next
If endorsed by the MAV, the proposal could lead to lobbying for state-level reform to limit how long individuals can serve in local government. At present, Victoria has no cap on councillor terms.
It is also notable that MAV president Cr Jennifer Anderson, of Macedon Ranges Shire Council, is now serving her fourth consecutive term since first being elected in 2012 — well beyond the three-term, 12-year cap proposed in Ranken’s motion.
That reality leaves open a key question: would the MAV realistically champion a reform that its own leadership would not meet — or does it simply strengthen the perception that the motion was targeted at silencing Cr Gill?
Councillors should retain office for as long as they continue to win their ward constituencies votes.
I think if councilor is voted in. It must mean they are doing their job well.
Been great to have David to work with. His experience is much appreciated
David Gill continues to do a fabulous job representing his constituency. He is active in his community and speaks up on their behalf. It’s obvious he does his homework and his contribution to debate is both articulate and heartfelt. Those of us living in southern Peninsula feel sadly neglected and underrepresented by comparison. Let his constituency determine his tenure. Contrast his energy and contribution with that of the bloc of 6, three of them barely speak, one is incoherent and another must own shares in ChatGPT. Keep going David.
Despicable vote. I vote for the very best representation, not as a ‘popularity contest for the best ‘new’ candidate’. Democracy is weakened by these new ‘wannabes’ who are heavily politically aligned. Keep putting yourself forward David Gill if you are voted in then you are the right person for the role.
Twelve years is a fair period of time to contribute and make a difference to the Shire and his constituency.
It is realistic to expect new representation after this time and new ideas
You are more than welcome to put yourself up as a candidate for election and if you beat the sitting Cr then you can represent your ward. It’s called democracy. Something which people like the cabal of 6 are undermining each and every time they silence others! Anyone watching international politics, especially the US, can see what happens when democracy is undermined and people silence through their own political agendas and for the sake of lining their own pockets at the cost of others. Do you really want that to occur here?