❓ Hon Paul Llewellyn questions the Minister about consultations regarding the introduction of proportional preferential voting for local government elections. The Minister confirms consultations occurred, detailing the process and outcomes, revealing mixed support for the proposed change.
AnsweredQoN 1006Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
LOCAL GOVERNMENT - VOTING SYSTEM
I refer to the Local Government Amendment Bill 2006. (1) Did the minister consult with local government specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (2) If yes to (1), what was the outcome of those consultations? (3) If no to (1), why not? (4) Did the minister poll local governments specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD
I refer to the Local Government Amendment Bill 2006. (1) Did the minister consult with local government specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (2) If yes to (1), what was the outcome of those consultations? (3) If no to (1), why not? (4) Did the minister poll local governments specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD
AnswerView source ↗
I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(1) Did the minister consult with local government specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (2) If yes to (1), what was the outcome of those consultations? (3) If no to (1), why not? (4) Did the minister poll local governments specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(2) If yes to (1), what was the outcome of those consultations? (3) If no to (1), why not? (4) Did the minister poll local governments specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(3) If no to (1), why not? (4) Did the minister poll local governments specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(4) Did the minister poll local governments specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(1) Did the minister consult with local government specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (2) If yes to (1), what was the outcome of those consultations? (3) If no to (1), why not? (4) Did the minister poll local governments specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(2) If yes to (1), what was the outcome of those consultations? (3) If no to (1), why not? (4) Did the minister poll local governments specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(3) If no to (1), why not? (4) Did the minister poll local governments specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(4) Did the minister poll local governments specifically about introducing proportional preferential voting for local government elections? (5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(5) If yes to (4), what were the outcomes? (6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(6) If no to (4), why not? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
I thank Hon Paul Llewellyn for some notice of the question. (1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(1) Yes. The Local Government Advisory Board was given terms of reference by the former Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, John Bowler, in October 2005 to consult specifically on changing the local government voting system from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. On 7 October 2005 the then minister wrote to the Western Australian Local Government Association, Local Government Managers Australia, all mayors, presidents and chief executive officers of local governments and members of Parliament, advising them of the consultative process. The Local Government Advisory Board conducted 10 public consultation hearings throughout the state, which included consultation on this specific reform. One of those hearings was conducted via a Westlink satellite broadcast. In total, 212 people attended in person. Furthermore, I released the Local Government Advisory Board report and recommendations on the consultative process entitled “Local Government Structural and Electoral Reform in Western Australia: Ensuring the Future Sustainability of Communities” to the wider community and local government on 29 April for a further round of consultation. (2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(2) The Local Government Advisory Board received 106 submissions on the proposal to change from a first-past-the-post system to a proportional preferential representation voting system. Of the 69 submissions received from local governments, 11 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 58 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 11 submissions from elected members and chief executive officers, nine were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and two supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Of the 26 submissions received from individuals and resident groups, 14 were in favour of the proposed change to a proportional preferential representation voting system and 12 supported the retention of the first-past-the-post system. Since I released the final report publicly, I have received a further 362 submissions. (3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(3) Not applicable. (4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
(4)-(6) A poll of local governments was not conducted as the consultation about this specific reform undertaken by the Local Government Advisory Board was considered extensive and comprehensive. However, it is important to note that in November 2005 the Western Australian Local Government Association polled its members specifically about changing the voting system from first-past-the-post to a proportional preferential representation system of voting. This was in response to the consultation process commenced by the former minister. I am advised that of the 142 local governments polled, approximately 70 responded that they wanted to retain the first-past-the-post system. As Minister for Local Government and Regional Development, I have met personally with more than 80 local government mayors and chief executive officers and have canvassed opinions on this reform informally. Although there is some opposition to change, most elected members and staff agree that there are more serious problems facing local government, such as the very question of their sustainability. It is important to note that WALGA has ignored the views of the largest part of the local government sector, which is of course the residents and taxpayers. Since WALGA’s campaign against reform has commenced, I have been inundated with support through personal phone calls and at meetings around the state, with people encouraging me to reform local government.
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