Rushed policy has become the hallmark of the Malinauskas Labor Government as it
arrogantly rammed new and controversial council merger legislation through Parliament last
night, blindsiding two regional mayors and communities in the process.
Peter Malinauskas’ shock move drew the ire of the Local Government Association, which
said it was disappointed the “LGA nor affected councils were adequately informed” about the
significant reform.
The Malinauskas Labor Government forced through its legislation in the Lower House,
sacrificing the long-held and respected tradition of laying new Bills on the table for a period
of two sitting weeks or 10 days.
Leader of Government Business Tom Koutsantonis has historically been extremely vocal
about the need for such a process:
“The reason we have this practice and procedure in this parliament is that we are able to
read that legislation, understand it, go away and consult on the legislation, talk to
stakeholders about that legislation, get advice on potential amendments we may or may not
wish to move and be briefed by the government on the intent of the legislation. That is the
way the normal practice of reform occurs in this parliament and it has for decades.”
Manager of Opposition Business John Gardner slammed Peter Malinauskas rushing
legislation through the parliament without proper consultation.
“Peter Malinauskas hasn’t explained where this idea came from and why there was no
consultation and now he has denied members of parliament the opportunity to consult with
residents and stakeholders on this Bill,” he said.
“He didn’t even bother to tell the mayors of both councils in the South East he wants them to
merge. It’s a reckless blindside.”
Shadow Minister for Local Government Sam Telfer said the Liberal Party has always driven
important local government reform.
“We’ve lobbied for proactive proposals such as restrictions on CEO salaries and restrictions
on council rates to support ratepayers,” Mr Telfer said.
“Peter Malinauskas’ Labor Party is notorious for rejecting local government reform at every
possible opportunity and they did nothing in this area for 16 years.
“This is just another Peter Malinauskas thought bubble and a prime example of the Premier
putting the cart before the horse because he’s had a couple of trips to Mount Gambier and
he thinks it’ll make him popular.
“Councils in the South East haven’t had any involvement in these discussions and once
again Peter Malinauskas has left the community, the most important part of this process, out
of the loop.”