Council ridings could be reintroduced in Moyne Shire if the community supports a new Victorian Electoral Commission proposal.
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Voters in Moyne Shire would vote for election candidates within a ward or riding system in their residential geographical area.
Feedback is being sought on the council electoral structure, with three options proposed for Moyne Shire Council's 2020 election, following the release of a report from the VEC on Wednesday.
Moyne Shire Council's existing structure is unsubdivided with seven councillors. The options outlined in the preliminary report are:
- Option A : Seven councillors elected from an unsubdivided electoral structure.
- Option B: Seven councillors elected from five wards (two two‑councillor wards and three single‑councillor wards).
- Option C: Seven councillors elected from three wards (two two‑councillor wards and one three‑councillor ward).
In January the VEC held information sessions and a month-long public submission period.
It asked community members to consider the number of councillors and whether the council should be subdivided into wards.
Twelve preliminary submissions were received, all of which were carefully considered in drawing up the proposed options. The VEC also analysed demographic, geographic and electoral data and trends.
Electoral commissioner Warwick Gately encouraged community members to get involved by reviewing the report and making a submission.
"We want to ensure all voters are represented in a fair and equitable way, so now's the time to speak up," Mr Gately said.
"You have one month to consider the options and make your submission supporting or opposing the options."
Glenelg and Southern Grampians residents are also encouraged to have a say about a proposed restructure within the respective municipalities.
Submissions responding to the preliminary report should address the options and must be received by the VEC by 5.00 pm Wednesday, April 17. Submissions can be made online at vec.vic.gov.au, by email or by post.
A public hearing will be held at 4pm on Wednesday, April 24 at the Port Fairy Community Services Centre for anyone who has requested to speak in support of their submission. If there are no requests to speak, the hearing will not be held.
The preliminary report is available at vec.vic.gov.au. Copies are also available for inspection at Moyne Shire Council offices.
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