The remote communities of Central Darling Shire in the Far West region of NSW will head to the polls tomorrow to elect council representatives for the first time in more than a decade, bringing the organisation out of administration.
The Shire will become a ‘Rural and Remote Council’ made up of three locally elected councillors from the community and three councillors appointed by the NSW Government. The hybrid structure is designed to ensure strong local representation while maintaining stable
governance through the inclusion of appointed members with relevant skills and expertise.
The NSW Government has committed $6 million to support the Council’s transition back to elected representation and set the Shire up for a more sustainable future. The funds will be delivered over two years to assist the Council in achieving long term financial stability.
Local Government Minister, Ron Hoenig says election day marks a significant step in the next chapter for the residents of Central Darling Shire and establishes the state’s first Rural and Remote Council, made possible by legislation passed last year.
“For far too long, the task of bringing Central Darling Shire Council out of administration was put in the too hard basket,” said Minister Hoenig.
“After more than a decade under administration, locals will finally have their voices heard and choose the representatives who will stand up for their community.
“This wouldn’t have been possible without the Minns Labor Government passing legislation last year — and the tireless advocacy of Roy Butler, who worked closely with myself to make sure the people of Central Darling are fairly represented.”
He said the NSW Government’s Rural and Remote Council model addresses the unique challenges faced by councils in geographically isolated and sparsely populated regions.
Central Darling Shire is the largest council by land size but has one of the smallest populations, with less than 2,000 residents. The council has been under administration since 2013 due to longstanding financial and governance issues, and it is currently the only local government area in NSW without an elected council.
“I’d like to thank the Minister Ron Hoenig for hearing the desire of the communities in the Central Darling Shire to return to some form democratic representation and for changing legislation to allow this start back towards elected representatives,” said Member for Barwon, Roy Butler.
“We needed a different model to get the Central Darling out of administration, and I look forward to seeing the results.”
