Mayor of Cessnock , Cr Alison Davey and council acting general manager Mike Brady handed the matter to ICAC for a thorough investigation yesterday.

Mr Brady could not give exact details of what might be investigated but he said the matters were “serious” and “unacceptable”.

He said there were notably different purchasing practices being implemented in council’s decision making that contrasted with previous practice.

“It clashes with what we are used to seeing,” he said.

“In my view it is unacceptable. The nature of them, we consider as quite serious.”

Cr Davey said an internal investigation was conducted late last year after general manager Lea Rosser had approached her with concerns over “procurement practices”.

Ms Rosser has since been on leave because of an injury and a sick family member but the investigations have continued in her absence.

Mr Brady said an internal auditor had been appointed and would analyse council practices and systems to ensure transparency was upheld.

Mr Brady said council staff were skilled, hardworking and conscientious.

“It is the role of the leadership group to provide a workplace where staff can realise their full potential unimpeded by poor practices and inappropriate influences so as they can achieve greater outcomes for the community,” he said.

Cr Davey said she had faith in the leadership group.

“This leadership group has the courage to address outstanding issues council has had for many years and they have the skills and experience to take on the hard issues that have been let go in the past,” she said.

The matter is now in the hands of ICAC to determine whether they will pursue an investigation.