Shadow Minister for Local Government Kirrilee Warr has today called for urgent clarity from the State Government on whether forced amalgamations are being considered, following a week of turmoil in Western Australia’s local government sector.
With commissioners appointed to the City of Nedlands and growing uncertainty surrounding the future of the Shire of Coolgardie, concerns are mounting that the Labor Government may be preparing to bypass community voices under the guise of so-called “boundary adjustments.”
“Most local governments across WA are doing a great job, and we should be empowering them—not undermining them,” Ms Warr said.
“The Minister’s refusal to rule out forced amalgamations, along with her comments suggesting this is merely a ‘boundary adjustment,’ are doing nothing to reassure local governments or their communities.”
Ms Warr has requested a briefing with Local Government Minister Hannah Beazley to seek answers and has called on the Government to be upfront about its intentions.
“Coolgardie and Kalgoorlie locals deserve to know what’s going on. Will they be consulted? Can changes be forced? Will there be a poll if ‘boundary changes’ are proposed?” she said.
“If Labor is now simply calling amalgamations ‘boundary adjustments,’ then every local government in WA should be on high alert. A new name doesn’t change what’s really going on.”
“Furthermore, the community was told that the Office of the Local Government Inspector would play a vital role in situations like this—helping to address issues early, before they escalate.”
“We are told the office will be running this financial year. By then, it will have been more than three and a half years since Labor announced it with great fanfare.”
Ms Warr reiterated her view that any amalgamations or boundary changes must be done transparently, with proper consultation, and with the agreement of the local governments and communities involved.
“Top-down decisions made behind closed doors won’t lead to stronger councils or better outcomes for ratepayers,” she said.
“I’ll keep pushing for answers — because local voices do matter.”
