A south-east Queensland mayor who has received nearly 50 conduct complaints in 18 months says the system can be politically weaponised and runs counter to natural justice.

Jocelyn Mitchell, Mayor of Redland City Council, east of Brisbane, has received 47 complaints through the state’s councillor conduct watchdog, the Office of the Independent Assessor (OIA) – with several over Facebook posts where the mayor commented on changes to council policies.

The OIA can refer complaints to the Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) or back to the council, who must bear the cost of an independent investigation.

Redlands mayor Jocelyn Mitchell.

After a complaint has been investigated, a report is tabled with the council, who vote on whether to support its findings. But complaints can be made anonym

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