The right of local governments to recover legal costs in proceedings for recovery of unpaid rates
Local governments are given significant power in relation to the recovery of unpaid rates under the Local Government Act 1995 (WA), including the right to recover the costs of rates recovery proceedings under section 6.56 of the Act.
Application of Building and Construction Industry Worker (Restrictions on Access) Directions to local government civil works
Various well-intended publications which circulated within the local government sector in recent weeks indicated that it has been the State government’s consistent intention not to require mandatory vaccinations for local government outdoor workers undertaking civil works.
Reviewing your CEO Employment Contract
Model standards for CEO recruitment, performance and termination took effect earlier this year. One consequence of this is that various terms typically included in CEO employment contracts are now inconsistent with aspects of the CEO Model Standards.
Structure plans and injurious affection claims: Otago Pty Ltd and City of Cockburn
In common with the legal situation in most Australian jurisdictions, Western Australian planning law makes provision for landowners to obtain compensation in some circumstances when their land is subjected to a town planning classification for a public purpose.
Defamation of local government elected members and officers
It is a common belief that defamation cases are most often commenced by high-profile public figures against mainstream media organisations for the publication of false and unsubstantiated material that serves to harm the defamed individual.
The future of technology in Council meetings
In the past few years, many local governments have been keen to explore new technologies to record and facilitate Council and committee meetings using video conferencing technology (such as video streaming and live streaming), to provide greater accessibility and transparency to their residents and ratepayers.
Considering due diligence, skills and knowledge under the Food Act 2008
While there are many offences under the Food Act 2008 (WA) (Act) which are easily detectable and identifiable, especially by reference to the requirements of the Food Standards Code (FSC), there are a number of concepts which require a more fluid interpretation.
Tree canopy and deep soil area requirements in Western Australia
Achieving a greener future is an organisation-wide endeavour for local governments.
A new conduct regime for local government officials
Through the operation of recently proclaimed sections of the Local Government Legislation Amendment Act 2019 (WA), several new sections were added to the Local Government Act 1995 (WA) (LG Act) which impact significantly on control of the conduct of key officials in local government.
Need for Strata Company signature on Development Applications
From time to time local governments receive applications for development approval involving works on, or use of, common property in a strata scheme.