Intro
Chair’s Report
On behalf of the Local Government Advisory Board (the Board), I am pleased to present this year’s annual report and to acknowledge the ongoing commitment of local governments across Western Australia to fostering strong, resilient, and well-governed communities.
In 2024-25, the Board met on a limited number of occasions, largely reflecting the impact of reforms to local government ward and representation structures implemented for the 2023 local government elections. As a result of these changes, the Board received fewer proposals during the 2024-25 period, given that the new structures are still bedding in and, in most cases, have not yet required adjustment.
While the reduced volume of proposals led to a lower overall workload compared to previous election years, the Board took the opportunity to focus on strengthening its own operations. In May 2025, members participated in a governance workshop aimed at reviewing and improving our internal processes and documentation. The workshop proved to be highly valuable, with all members recognising the importance of regular reviews to ensure our continued effectiveness and readiness for future demand. The implementation of these governance improvements is now underway.
During the reporting period, the Board also experienced several changes in its membership. On behalf of the Board, I wish to sincerely thank Ms Bana Brajanovic, who stepped down from her role as Deputy Chair, as well as Ms Joanne Soderlund and Councillor Karen Wheatland, whose terms concluded. Their contributions and commitment to the work of the Board have been greatly appreciated. We particularly thank Joanne and Karen for their ongoing service to the local government sector.
At the same time, we are pleased to welcome Mayor Alison Xamon and Ms Joanne Abbiss to their new Deputy roles. Both bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, and I am confident their contributions will greatly benefit the Board’s work. Inductions were held earlier this year, and together with the reappointment of existing members, the Board is well-positioned to carry out its responsibilities with depth and confidence. As the newly appointed Chair, I look forward to working with all members and building strong relationships in the year ahead.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries for its ongoing support and my appreciation to the Departmental Officer and Board Deputy to the Deputy Chair, Ms Amy Halliday. Her commitment to ensuring continuity and the timely handling of Board matters - especially during the period when the Chair appointment was under Ministerial consideration - was instrumental to the Board’s continued effectiveness.
Finally, I express my sincere thanks to the executive support staff, whose professionalism and diligence ensure that Board members receive timely, high-quality information and communications. Their efforts continue to enable us to operate to the highest standard.
Ms. Carol Adams OAM
Chair, Local Government Advisory Board
30 June 2025