MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release Monday 26 August 2024
Authorised by Anthony O’Reilly
Hilltops Residents to Cast Constitutional Referendum Vote
On Saturday 14 September 2024, Hilltops residents will participate in a Constitutional Referendum held alongside the 2024 Local Government Elections.
This referendum will give residents the opportunity to vote on a significant change regarding the number of Councillors representing the Hilltops community.
The referendum will pose the following question to voters: “Do you favour a reduction in the number of Hilltops Councillors from eleven to nine?”
Under Section 224(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, it is mandated that councils must determine the number of their councillors for the upcoming term no less than 12 months before an ordinary election. Should a council wish to alter the number of its councillors, it must gain approval through a constitutional referendum. The outcome of the September 2024 referendum would therefore be applicable from the start of the new electoral term in September 2028.
Here are some considerations in response to the Referendum question:
For/ Yes:
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Reducing the number of Councillors might make decision-making faster and easier
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Reducing the number of Councillors will provide an ongoing cost saving for Council
Against/ No:
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Having fewer Councillors might make electors feel underrepresented
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Having fewer Councillors might result in less diversity and fewer viewpoints on the Council
For further information on the referendum and the Local Government Elections please visit: https://www.olg.nsw.gov.au/
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Media enquiries – Hilltops Council 1300 445 586