Cessnock’s newly elected Labor councillor, Chris Madden, has announced his resignation, citing changes to state government rules that limit councillors’ ability to attend meetings via Zoom if they have work commitments.
Madden, who was elected to the Cessnock City Council in the most recent local elections, has frequently participated in council meetings remotely, using Zoom to balance his professional life with his responsibilities to the community. In his statement announcing the resignation, Madden expressed his disappointment over the recent changes, which he says make it impossible for him to continue serving effectively.
“The new rules introduced by the state government mean that councillors who have work commitments cannot attend council meetings via Zoom,” Madden wrote. “For me, attending meetings remotely has been an important way to stay involved while managing professional obligations. This change makes it unworkable to continue my role.”
Madden’s resignation comes just weeks after his election, highlighting the practical impact of the state government’s policy changes on newly elected officials. He has been a strong advocate for using modern technology to increase accessibility in local government, arguing that Zoom and other remote participation tools allow councillors to remain active participants even when they cannot attend in person.
“The ability to attend via Zoom has allowed me to contribute fully to discussions, ask questions on behalf of the community, and vote on key decisions,” Madden said. “Limiting this option undermines the flexibility needed for councillors who juggle work, family, and council responsibilities.”
The NSW state government recently introduced reforms requiring councillors to attend meetings in person unless exceptional circumstances apply. According to government sources, the changes aim to encourage greater accountability and ensure that councillors are physically present to engage in decision-making. However, critics argue that the rules fail to account for councillors who have legitimate professional or personal commitments and rely on remote participation to remain involved.
Madden’s resignation leaves a vacancy on the Cessnock City Council and raises broader questions about the impact of the state government’s policies on other councils across New South Wales. Local government experts have warned that the restrictions could discourage candidates from running for council, particularly younger professionals or those with jobs that require flexibility.
“Many councillors have been using Zoom successfully for several years,” said a local governance expert. “This sudden change ignores the reality of modern work and risks reducing the diversity and effectiveness of local councils.”
During his short time on council, Madden had established himself as an engaged and active representative, often raising questions and contributing to discussions even when attending remotely. His resignation has sparked concern among constituents who value accessibility and flexibility in local government representation.
Community members have expressed disappointment at Madden’s departure, noting that remote participation has been essential for councillors in regional areas where travel to council chambers can be time-consuming. “Chris has always been committed to representing our community,” one resident said. “It’s frustrating that a state policy is forcing him out.”
The Cessnock City Council now faces the task of filling the vacancy, which may involve a by-election or the appointment of another eligible candidate, depending on timing and council procedures. The resignation also serves as a case study for other councils navigating the balance between in-person and remote participation under the new state government rules.
Madden concluded his statement by thanking the community for their support and urging the state government to reconsider its approach. “I hope these policies are revisited to allow councillors to continue serving their communities effectively,” he said. “Remote participation should be seen as a tool to enhance engagement, not a reason to limit it.”
