Election changes

THE State Government has rubber stamped changes that will affect the way people vote at November’s council elections.
The Victorian Electoral Commission recommended, following a review early this year, that the City of Greater Dandenong dump its 11 single-councillor wards.
While it urged the State Government to maintain the same number of councillors, it proposed dividing them among four larger wards.
The change alters the voting method from preferential to proportional, meaning candidates can win a seat with fewer votes.
This week Local Government Minister Richard Wynne rubber stamped the VEC’s preferred option of four wards named Silverleaf, Lightwood, Paperbark and Red Gum, each with three councillors except for Lightwood, which would host two.
“Strong, open and democratic councils help build stronger local communities.
“Ensuring that everyone’s vote is equal in Victorian council elections is one of the ways the State Government is helping local councils and communities continue to thrive and grow,” Mr Wynne said.
The VEC’s electoral representation review process involved community consultation, including public hearings and submissions.
It drew on extensive research, including Australian Bureau of Statistics and Department of Sustainability and Environment population forecasts.
“This review is designed to strengthen local democracy and input from members of the local community has been an important factor in the VEC’s process,” Mr Wynne said.
The VEC’s full report is available at www.vec.vic.gov .au.