Local governments will now be able to deliver more cost-effective and efficient services to their communities, following the passage of legislation through State Parliament.
Member for Wagin Terry Waldron MLA said the Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2014 addressed requests from the sector to reduce red tape and allow greater flexibility to formally work together.
“This new regional subsidiary model will provide increased flexibility for local governments in offering shared services without the significant regulatory and compliance burden of the existing models,” Mr Waldron said.
“It will strengthen the ability of local governments to deliver services to their communities and help build a stronger and more efficient local government sector in Western Australia.”
Mr Waldron said it provided an opportunity for local governments to work together on a range of activities, including IT management, tourism or service delivery to Aboriginal communities.
“For example, a number of local governments in the Wagin electorate are already collaborating on the building and management of independent living units for seniors, so they can remain close to their communities and networks into retirement,” he said.
“I encourage all local governments in the electorate to take advantage of this new legislation and to work with other nearby councils so they can deliver more sustainable services into the future.”
Nationals WA candidate for Roe Peter Rundle said he expected the legislation to have a positive impact on local communities.
“I look forward to seeing the joint projects that will be initiated thanks to this change,” Mr Rundle said.
“Working together on these types of projects will allow the local governments involved to share tools, expertise, knowledge and resources to provide better outcomes.”
For media enquiries contact Terry Waldron on 9881 1225 or email terry.waldron@mp.wa.gov.au or Peter Rundle on M: 0418 959 810, E: peter.rundle@nationalswa.com
