As the level of government closest to the community, local governments are feeling the impacts of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
There are increased challenges for local governments, especially in relation to holding meetings while dealing with social distancing and possible individual self-isolation.
The State Government has responded to these challenges with new regulations that allow council meetings to continue electronically during a public health emergency or state of emergency.
The new regulations, to take effect on Thursday, will enable local governments to hold meetings via teleconference, video conference or other electronic means.
The amendments will also modify provisions in the Local Government Act that relate to a notice of a meeting and public question time. If a meeting is held electronically, local governments will need to allocate time for raising questions by members of the public and provide a means for questions to be submitted prior to the meeting.
A fast-tracked application process has been introduced by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) for local governments to seek approval for a reduced quorum at meetings.
DLGSC has also established a working group with the Western Australian Local Government Association, and is continually working to provide guidance to the sector during the pandemic.
As stated by Local Government Minister David Templeman:
“It is important that local governments are able to continue to support their communities during the pandemic, so we have fast-tracked mechanisms for them to continue holding council meetings and achieve quorums.
“Local governments have an important role to play and the State Government is doing everything it can to provide the necessary tools and supports during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I encourage local governments to make use of electronic means of communication to keep in contact with their community.
“Local governments should post agendas and minutes on their websites as early as possible to continue engaging with their communities as much as possible.”
