As part of the State Government’s reform agenda, a new Local Government Act will be drafted.
Our vision is for the local government sector to be agile, smart and inclusive.
Our objective is to transform local government so that it is empowered to better deliver quality governance and services to their communities now and into the future.
We are looking at local laws as an area of reform.
The current system
- Local governments make local laws that govern activities within their districts such as parking, dog/cat management and public places.
- Local laws are a type of legislation and must be approved by Parliament.
- The Department monitors and provides advice to help local governments with this process.
Consultation
The department undertook consultation on the topic of local laws during stage two of the Local Government Act review consultation.
Administrative efficiencies and local laws summary discussion paper
Local laws discussion paper
The following sections outline what was heard during consultation and how feedback will inform a new Local Government Act.
What you’ve told us
- Local laws vary from one local government district to another, which can be both confusing and onerous for people and businesses that operate in different districts.
- Creating a good local law is complex and requires legal skills.
Ideas for change
- Provide more consistency in local laws between districts.
- Require local governments to have their local laws certified by a legal practitioner