The mixed-up world of local politics and development in Auburn is even smaller than previously known.

The Herald has learnt that the mayor of Auburn, Le Lam, is paid to manage the strata for a development built by her current council ally and former mayor Cr Ronney Oueik​.

Le Lam ... declined to comment. Credit:Andrew Meares

That's a link she has never disclosed, despite recently voting on a development proposal that would have financially benefited Cr Oueik.

The former mayor confirmed his company had awarded the contract to Combined Real Estate, a company directed jointly by Cr Lam and her brother-in-law Minh Hua.