The Western Australian Municipal Association has welcomed an announcement by the new Minister for the Arts, Mike Broad, that the proposed Culture, Library and the Arts Bill will be redrafted to include greater input from Local Government.
WAMA was deeply concerned that the bill proposed by the previous Minister effectively reduced Local Government representation and input into decision making over these vital areas of community life. WAMA Policy Manager Debbie Terelinck said the Association was particularly concerned about the impact of the proposed changes on the Library service.
“Local Government contributes over $50 million to library services each year,” she said. “It was of great concern that we should not have input into the decision making that affects a major public service area for Local Government.”
The initial bill proposal arose out of a decision to concentrate all areas of the arts, which had previously operated under individual boards, under the one Minister. It gave the Minister potential to censor content and display of art gallery and library collections.
“Another aspect of the legislation which concerned WAMA was the failure to mention funding principles in the legislation,” Debbie Terelinck said. “Essentially, our public library service operates on a shared basis with the State. Funding principles are key elements which underpin any partnership agreement.”
In addition, WAMA, while pleased that agreements first made in the 1950s were to be reviewed, was concerned that there was no framework or time frame included in which to renegotiate those agreements. The new Minister has indicated in meetings with WAMA that he would consult with Local Government recognising that key stakeholders have to be satisfied with arrangements.
For further information contact Debbie Terelinck, telephone (08) 9213 2031
