Running parallel with the restructure of Council boundaries in South Australia, a review of the Local Government Act 1934 and associated legislation is currently underway.
Earlier this year, the Minister for Housing, Urban Development and Local Government Relations, Scott Ashenden, announced the review, indicating that he hoped new legislation would be in place in time for the Council elections scheduled for May next year.
In March, interest groups and individuals were invited to make written submissions on issues they saw as critical to a revised legislative framework for Local Government.
Some 65 responses were received. Common matters raised included the desire for user friendly, easily understood legislation; a clearer definition of the roles of elected members and officers; reinforcement of accountability of Councils to their communities; a review of the number, remuneration and terms of elected members; a desire for an adequate complaints mechanism; and a review of rating provisions.
“The efforts made by individuals, interest groups and Local Government bodies to put forward their views, concerns and recommendations is very much appreciated,” the Minister stated.
The new Legislation is now not expected to be in place until the middle of next year. Currently, an exposure draft Bill is being prepared. This is expected to be released later this year, or early in 1997, and will provide a three month period for community consultation.
Revision of the Bill, in light of this consultation, will occur prior to it being introduced into the next Budget session of Parliament. As the timeline for the Legislative Review means the Legislation will not be in place before the May elections, a Miscellaneous Amendments Bill was introduced in this Spring session. It deals with amendments to the electoral provisions and other urgent amendments, including the confidentiality of Council Meetings and when certain documents can be released to the public.
For further information on the review process contact Russell Starr, State/Local Government Relations Unit, telephone (08) 8207 0600.
