- Rolls close August 28 for local government elections
- Women and young people under-represented on council
West Australians have until 5pm on Friday, August 28 to enrol to vote in this year's local government elections.
With the closing of electoral rolls approaching, more women and young people are being urged to get involved in this year's council elections.
Local Government Minister Tony Simpson said women comprised 51 per cent of the State's population and WA had the fastest growing percentage of young people in Australia, yet both groups were significantly under-represented at a local level.
"Not only have we seen a steady decline in voter participation at local government elections in recent years, but very low numbers of women and young people are standing for council," Mr Simpson said.
"In the 2013 local government elections, only 30 per cent of councillor candidates were women, even though they are very active in their local communities, particularly as volunteers."
The Minister said fewer than 20 West Australians aged 24 years or younger nominated to be a councillor at the 2013 local government election, compared with 223 people aged between 55 and 64.
"These are worrying statistics and they demonstrate the diversity of WA's communities is not being reflected in our councils. Women and young people, as well as Aboriginal people and those from culturally diverse backgrounds, all have an important voice in the community," he said.
"As a former councillor, I know the decisions of local government affect the lives of all West Australians - from the roads we drive on and the parks our children play at, to the services we use every day."
Mr Simpson said voter participation in council elections had decreased from 33 per cent in 2009 to 27 per cent in 2013.
Local government elections will be held on October 17, 2015. Candidates have from September 3-10 to lodge a nomination.
Fact File
- Mr Simpson was a member of Serpentine-Jarrahdale Council from 2001 to 2005
- Local government elections take place every two years. It is not compulsory to vote at local government elections
- More information at Western Australian Electoral Commission or Department of Local Government and Communities
Minister's office - 6552 6600
