Tough times no deterrent to $400,000 waste on local government political campaign

Tough times in Tasmania appear to be no deterrent to local government needlessly wasting
ratepayer’s money with revelations some $400,000 will be spent trying to convince the community
to support financial recognition of municipal areas in the Australian Constitution.

Tasmanians for Reform spokesperson, Robert Mallett said councils claim they are doing the right
thing to keep costs down, but many ratepayers will be shocked to know their money will be spent on
a lavish advertising campaign, whether they want it or not.

“We are seeing rates spiralling out of control, with councils already indicating their charges will
significantly exceed the local Consumer Price Index,” Mr Mallett said.

“Now if reports are correct, Tasmanian local government has no issue with taking an extra $400,000
to fund a political campaign to ensure they receive Federal funds into the future.”

“What most Tasmanians and small businesses want to see from local government is the delivery of
better services and cheaper rates, not self-interested campaigns funded by those who have had no
choice in this matter.”

Mr Mallett said just as last week we saw Sorell Council demonstrated its alderman were more
interested in protecting their position than listening to their constituents, we are seeing the same
self-interest approach in spending on the yes case for constitutional recognition.

“There are councils in Queensland, Victoria and NSW that are refusing to support the campaign
because they don’t have the money to hand out to a cause they don’t believe is worthwhile,” Mr
Mallett said.

“However, in Tasmania all member councils are arrogantly told by the peak body to cough up
whether they like or not.

“Yet again, the protected species that is local government continues to run roughshod over the
community without actually taking the time to ask them if it is what they want to do.”
Tasmanians for Reform spokesperson, Robert Mallett