Cr Dingle told the Examiner that with current concerns surrounding alcohol-fuelled crime throughout the Hunter, councillors drinking after meetings was setting a bad example to the community.

"This action will demonstrate that consumption of alcohol is not an essential part of effective social and business interaction," he said.

He said the move would also save the council up to $30,000 per year.

However, Mayor Bruce MacKenzie responded by calling the motion 'nothing but a load of rot'.

"That is absolute garbage, if any member of the staff or councillors wants to have a glass of wine or beer after the meeting they are absolutely entitled," he said.

"There is no alcohol-fuelled violence in the chamber, some of the remarks other councillors make might instigate violence, but there's certainly no alcohol needed for that."

He refuted claims the ban could save $30,000. Cr Dingle said he would like to see an alcohol testing policy for council staff.