The Shires of Waroona and Murray have teamed up for a more coordinated approach to developing economic initiatives and improved service delivery for local communities.
Last week, both councils adopted the Murray-Waroona Resource Sharing Alliance Strategy for the next five years.
The Shires have shared information technology, environmental health and ranger services resources for many years.
These arrangements were expanded in 2019 with the employment of a shared chief executive officer, Dean Unsworth.
Shire of Murray president David Bolt said the new plan was an innovative approach to ensure both local governments remained strong, resilient and adaptable into the future.
Cr Bolt added that the strategy came in the middle of "changing economies and increasing community expectations of services".
"The transparent and cooperative arrangement allows the Shires of Murray and Waroona to maintain their individual identities while facilitating collaboration on sub-regional projects and creating new funding partnerships," he said.
Shire of Waroona president Mike Walmsley said the relationship between the two local governments was based on good will and good intentions for residents and ratepayers.
"Both Shires continue to witness benefits of increased economies of scale and scope, which lead to the development of this five-year plan," he said.
"Economic, social and environmental benefits will be maximised through its implementation and development - collaboration for mutual prosperity."
The plan will start with a joint focus on developing the Murray-Waroona Sport and Recreation Strategy, expanding joint economic partnership opportunities including tourism, and securing water to supply industry and agricultural development.
To view the Murray-Waroona Resource Sharing Alliance Strategy 2020-2025, visit murray.wa.gov.au or waroona.wa.gov.au.
