Taxpayers’ Union Welcomes ACT Local’s Strong Stance on Unelected Appointees in Local Government

The Taxpayers’ Union has welcomed commitment from ACT to oppose voting powers for unelected appointees in local government, included in today’s Democracy policy release.

“Democracy has been treated as a plaything in local councils for too long. Making a clear stand on this issue is essential for restoring fair and accountable governance in local government.” said Sam Warren, Local Government Campaign Manager for the Taxpayers’ Union.

“Councils are in disarray. Rates are climbing, and the need for representatives who are truly accountable to the public is more important than ever. Good advice and insight can certainly be offered by experts and interested parties, but at the end of the day, democracy must be front and centre in all decision-making.”

“Every ACT Local candidate standing for council has committed to all three policy items in the Ratepayer Protection Pledge, that includes opposing unelected appointees. It’s a massive win for ratepayers as they begin to vote, seeing a range of candidates wearing their policies on their sleeves. Candidates who have signed the pledge, and those who have not, can be found at Ratepayer.vote.”