Local Government Minister David Templeman today released an expert report which outlines recommendations to guide the development of a new Local Government Act for Western Australia.
The report, by the Local Government Review Panel, follows on from significant legislative reforms passed by State Parliament last year, including mandatory training and a new gift declaration framework for all elected members.
The panel made 65 recommendations for the proposed legislation that focus on future-proofing local governments in Western Australia and promoting healthy, connected and engaged local communities.
The recommendations address the need for a renewed focus on integrity, inclusive local democracy, efficient service delivery and enhanced accountability across the local government sector.
The expert panel closely considered national and international best practice models and drew on the extensive feedback from the recent consultation conducted by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.
The expert panel consisted of David Michael MLA (chairperson), Professor John Phillimore, Graham Sansom, Anne Wood, Henry Zelones OAM and Duncan Ord OAM.
The expert panel’s final report and more information can be found at https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/local-government/strengthening-local-government/public-consultations/local-government-act-review
As stated by Local Government Minister David Templeman:
“This report is the result of the diligence and thorough research and assessment conducted by the expert panel chaired by Balcatta MLA David Michael, and I’d like to thank him and each of the members for their hard work.
“The McGowan Government will now consider the report and its recommendations before beginning the drafting of a new Local Government Act green bill.
“This report is a critical component in the journey towards developing a new Local Government Act that meets the needs of communities now and into the future.”
As stated by Balcatta MLA and Local Government Review Panel chairperson David Michael:
“The recommendations in this report are a roadmap to a more agile and inclusive local government sector.
“They provide a new legislative framework that ensures community consultation and integrated planning is a centrepiece of a local government’s operations, as well as an emphasis on regional and intergovernmental collaboration.
“An Act based on this report would prepare local governments in Western Australia not just for the challenges of today, or the next few years, but for the long-term, and would put them in good stead to continue to foster healthy, connected and engaged communities.”
