The Hodgman Government welcomes the announcement that the West Tamar and George Town councils are discussing a potential merger.
We believe that all levels of government, including local councils and state governments, should constantly look at ways to deliver the best possible services to the community at the lowest possible price.
For voluntary amalgamation to work, it must be driven by local communities. There are too many examples of council reform imposed from on high by State Governments that have failed. The Government will not force amalgamation, instead we are working with local councils to explore opportunities for resource sharing and potentially voluntary amalgamation.
So far, reports into options for councils in the south east and councils in the greater Hobart area have been prepared.
Reports into resource sharing options for councils in the north and the north-west are underway.
We applaud the leadership that West Tamar and George Town councils have shown and we look forward to a positive community conversation about council mergers in the Tamar Valley and around the State more broadly.
More Media Releases from Peter Gutwein
More Media Releases from the Minister for Planning and Local Government