Gold Coast City Council travel spending has come under renewed scrutiny after details emerged of former CEO Tim Baker’s February trip to the United States. The trip, connected with G’Day USA and LA Film Week, cost almost $30,000, including more than $21,000 in flights as well as accommodation and other expenses.

The trip was intended to help develop strategic relationships with the US film industry and explore investment opportunities connected with major future events, including the LA 2028 Olympics and Brisbane 2032.

Council travel spending has reportedly fallen significantly during the first half of the year, from $328,437 to $138,429, following the introduction of a stricter assessment process focused on community benefit and value for ratepayers.

The issue has attracted attention because an investigation also found more than $100,000 in travel expenses associated with Baker over a 12-month period. The council subsequently moved to strengthen its travel approval arrangements.

Baker resigned as Gold Coast CEO in July and is currently on extended leave. The council has extended acting CEO Paul Callander’s term while the process of appointing a permanent replacement continues.