Local Government Elections occur every two years, and while it isn’t compulsory to vote, the City of Kwinana is encouraging its community to familiarises themselves with the candidates and ensure they have a voice in choosing the best people to represent the community.
This year the City of Kwinana has 12 candidates who are vying for a total of five elected members positions including four four-year term positions and one two-year term position.
Chief Executive Officer Wayne Jack said Local government elections played an important role in our democratic system and were an excellent opportunity for people to contribute to their community.
“I would encourage all eligible electors to get to know the candidates and make sure they have their say in who will be the best people to represent the Kwinana community,” he said.
Ordinarily only four positions would be available each election, however, due to the retirement of current Councillor Wendy Cooper mid-way through her term a fifth two-year position has also become available.
Councillor Cooper first become an Elected Member in 2011 and during her career has represented the Kwinana community, being an advocate for environmental issues through her involvement with the South Metropolitan Regional Council, participating on various judging panels including Citizen of the Year, Photographic competitions, the LYRIK awards, Grant applications, Leadership Awards, Volunteer Awards, Art and Craft Awards and Sporting Awards, and being a consistent community representative through her involvement with Rotary, Wellard Community Group, Multicultural Advisory Group and many others.
“I wanted to take this opportunity to thank Councillor Wendy Cooper for her decade-long dedication and commitment to the Kwinana community, and wish her all the best for the future,” Mr Jack said.
Election packs are posted out to all electors around three weeks before the election and are to be returned by post and to be received prior to 6pm on Election Day. The count commences at 6pm on Election Day with the results available later that evening.
To view the candidate profiles or to find out more information about the local government election process visit www.kwinana.wa.gov.au/elections.