Local democracy gets a green light as restrictions eased

  • Easing of COVID-19 restrictions mean electors’ meetings can get underway
  • Changes take effect today, Wednesday, November 4, 2020
  • The local government sector continues to play a key role in helping get communities back on their feet, with the easing of COVID-19 restrictions on electors’ meetings.

    A Ministerial Order taking effect from Wednesday, November 4, 2020 means that the meetings can now go ahead, if they take place in a COVID-19 safe environment. This includes following good hygiene habits and complying with physical distancing advice.

    Electors’ general meetings are held once every financial year, enabling community members to discuss a local government’s annual report and any other items of interest. Electors’ special meetings may be held if minimum community demand for a meeting is met.

    The Local Government Amendment (COVID-19 Response) Act 2020 came into effect on April 21, 2020.

    The Act, and a subsequent Ministerial Order meant that local governments were unable to hold electors’ general meetings or electors’ special meetings under sections 5.27 and 5.28 of the Local Government Act 1995, while the State of Emergency declaration was in force.

    As stated by Local Government Minister David Templeman:

    “The easing of COVID-19 restrictions on electors’ meetings has been made due to requests from local governments and community members, so it’s important that we let local democracy get well and truly underway again.

    “Local governments have done a fantastic job so far in taking a leadership role as COVID-19 restrictions are gradually eased.

    “We have seen them apply common sense and sound judgement during each phase of the easing of restrictions. I expect this to continue as WA continues on its road to recovery.”

    /Public Release. View in full here.