Mandurah residents will have the opportunity to shape the future of their local government when the state reviews the Local Government Act of 1995.
Two community workshops will be held at the Tuckey Room in the City of Mandurah’s office buildings on December 4 for anyone interested in participating.
Local government staff and elected members are encouraged to participate in the workshops to learn about and share their unique experiences an expertise to guide the review.
The earlier workshop will be held between 1-3pm and the late workshop will be held between 6-8pm.
A McGowan Government election commitment, the review is aimed to “bring Western Australian local government into the 21st century”.
The state government is seeking public comment on a range of issues including councillor conduct, local government transparency and accountability, and accessibility of public information through the use of technology.
Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries has prepared the consultation paper and will be conducting 14 workshops across the state to promote the paper and provide opportunities for people to have their say.
The string of workshops is phase one of the review of the Local Government Act 1995.
The review canvases options for major reforms to modernise WA’s local government sector, including ensuring laws around disclosing gifts are simplified and match public expectations of accountability.
Local Government Minister and member for Mandurah David Templeman launched the consultation paper at the Local Government Professionals Australia Annual Conference calling on local governments, residents, community organisations and businesses to make a submission.
“Local governments currently operate under a complex legislative framework that is more than 20 years old and technology and expectations of local governments have changed significantly.
“Whether you are a community, business, resident or local government, this is your chance to contribute to the future of a local government sector that is smart, agile and inclusive,” Mr Templeman said.
“Restoring the recently tarnished reputation of local governments is a McGowan Government priority as Western Australians deserve efficient and effective local governments that are positioned to deliver for the community now and into the future.
“Opportunities to influence the ways that local governments work don’t come around every day and while the paper addresses specific issues, comments on all aspects of the Act are welcomed.”
The consultation is open for public comment until February 9, 2018.
To register for a workshop or make an online submission, visit http://www.dlgc.wa.gov.au/LGAreview.
