Following its introduction earlier in the year, a bill to legislate for a new governance model for rural and remote councils such as Central Darling Shire Council was passed by Parliament in September.

The passing of the Local Government Amendment (Rural and Remote Councils) Bill 2024 will bring the community of Central Darling Shire one step closer to the goal of returning democratically elected councillors.

Under the Government’s new Rural and Remote Council model, the Shire will continue to function the same as all other councils but will have a different structure.

Three councillors will be elected by the community and three councillors will be appointed by the NSW Government. This mixed governance model will ensure the community has a voice on local issues and that the councillors have relevant expertise to support the stable and effective operation of the council.

Following the passage of the legislation through Parliament, the NSW Government will now turn to drafting regulations to enable the shire to be transitioned to a Rural and Remote Council and for elections to be held in the first half of 2025.

For more information about the ‘Rural and Remote Council’ model and the new way forward for Central Darling Shire Council, please access the following resources here;

• • Access the media release here

• • Access the FAQ document here

• • Access the flyer here

If you wish to make a comment or have any further queries, you may write to olg@olg.nsw.gov.au.