Shire of Augusta-Margaret River chiefs head to Canberra to advocate for region’s unmet needs

Shire president Julia Meldrum and one of the local government’s top directors will head to Canberra next week in an escalation of lobbying for the region’s interests.

Shire of Augusta-Margaret River sustainable economy and communities director Nick Byrne will accompany the president to the 2024 national assembly of Australia’s local governments in the nation’s capital in a move driven by concerns at the cost-of-living crisis coming on the heels of strong population and visitor growth in the region.

Ms Meldrum said it was important to communicate the region’s challenges to decision-makers.

“We hope to strengthen our relationship with the Federal Government and ensure the needs of our community are heard,” she said at Tuesday night’s council meeting.

Since October’s local government election which saw Ms Meldrum win the first-time popular presidential vote, the shire has moved towards pushing a stronger voice in advocacy and lobbying.

It follows concerns the shire was missing out on grant opportunities, highlighted by a new report pushing for a review of how officers coordinate projects.

In recent months shire leaders, supported by now-departed acting chief executive Arthur Kyron, have met senior State Government ministers and Premier Roger Cook to argue for adequate services and funding for the region.

Among the pitches was a call for greater investment in social housing in partnership with the shire as well as a call for Mr Cook to consider funding a permanent social worker for the region.

Deputy shire president Tracey Muir last month told the Times it was hoped the State Government would understand concerns about housing, community and mental health services, infrastructure, creative industries, and protection of natural resources — without believing Margaret River was a wealthy enclave that didn’t need support.

“The shire has decided to become more active in advocating for the needs of the shire and to get the government to see us as more than a convenient marketing asset for the state of WA,” Cr Muir said.

“The pressures on the area are being driven by the rapid population growth, the 4.7 million visitors to the region, the deterioration on the natural environment and the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, the pressures on the grassroots services, the lack of housing and the commensurate problems associated with illegal camping.”

There were some green shoots emerging, with news Housing Minister John Carey would examine acquisition of a slated mixed-density housing project at the Water Corporation site on Willmott Avenue.