Western Australian Minister for Local Government, Paul Omodei, recently announced the five members of the new Local Government Advisory Board. Established as a key part of changes under the Local Government Act, that came into effect on 1 July this year, the Board replaces the Local Government Boundaries Commission.
It will oversee constitutional changes within Local Government, including representation and boundary issues. To be chaired by Cr Rob Rowell, Immediate Past President of the Western Australian Municipal Association, other Board members include the following.
- Cr John Hardwick, Mayor South Perth
- Cr Ian Mickel, Shire President Esperance
- Garry Hunt, CEO Perth City Council
- John Lynch, Executive Director Department of Local Government.
Five deputies have also been appointed. They include Cr Ken Pech (Gnowangerup Shire and President of WAMA), Cr Rod Willox (Stirling), Cr John Sabourne (Shire President Harvey), Eric Lumsden (CEO Shire of Swan) and Stephen Cole (Department of Local Government).
“The Advisory Board will be responsible for considering and inquiring into all proposals for constitutional change including district and ward boundaries or changes to councillor numbers,” the Minister said.
The Advisory Board is now empowered to undertake an inquiry into a boundary change at the request of the Minister. Previously only Councils or residents could petition to have a proposed boundary change considered.
The Minister has stated that any formal inquiry by the Board will provide affected electors and Councils with the opportunity to make submissions and ensure that local people have a say in any significant constitutional change.
The Board’s inaugural meeting was held on 8 August.
