The Tasmanian Greens today welcomed the introduction of the local government election reform legislation into the state parliament today, saying the reforms are a win both for democracy and for the ratepayer.
Greens Local Government spokesperson Tim Morris MP said that compulsory voting, all-in and all-out elections, and a ban on duel representation were all long-standing Greens policies.
“These are positive and progressive proposals the Greens have long championed, and we will now scrutinise closely the Bill tabled by the Minister today to ensure it does deliver,” Mr Morris said.
“If so, and should it pass through the Parliament, these measures will strengthen Tasmania’s democracy and ensure ratepayers receive value for money from their elected representatives.”
“These reforms would be a big step forward, but Tasmanians should not be getting too excited just yet because they may be resisted by some Upper House members, who may feel a little personally challenged by some aspects contained in the Bill.”
“Putting an end to dual representation will improve accountability and address potential conflicts of interest that arise from elected members holding two paid positions at the same time.”
“All Members of Parliament are paid a good salary to do a full time job, and they should be focusing one hundred per cent of their energy on that job.”
“The Greens support compulsory voting in municipal elections because we regard it as the single best way to address the low participation rate in local government ballots.”
“All-in, all-out elections would almsot halve the cost of local government elections, which is money that will be freed up for councils to deliver vital services.”
“Extending the local government term to four years will allow councils to get on with the important job of delivering services without constantly being in election mode,” Mr Morris said.
Tim Morris MP Local Government Spokesperson
