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The WA Government’s recently introduced changes are the first significant reform of local government in more than two decades.

The changes include the introduction of online universal training for candidates and council members; a code of conduct for council members; improvements to CEO recruitment and performance reviews; and the introduction of a simplified gifts framework.

The changes involved an enormous amount of planning and consultation with local government.

DLGSC staff received more than 3000 survey responses and written submissions from community members, ratepayer associations, industry groups, local governments, councillors and peak bodies.

It also consulted more than 100 organisations and community groups including local government staff, peak bodies, multicultural groups, young people, Aboriginal groups and seniors.

The changes also focused on attracting candidates who might not ordinarily consider standing.

The ‘Put Yourself Forward’ video campaign was launched to encourage people from diverse backgrounds to stand for election so that local governments can more accurately reflect their communities.

The campaign was launched in partnership with WALGA, the WA Electoral Commission and the Office of Multicultural Interests.