Bruce Reynolds will continue as the Lord Mayor of the City of Perth, as early results from Western Australia’s local government elections indicate a voter turnout lower than anticipated. The elections, held across more than 100 local governments, resumed counting on Sunday, revealing Reynolds’ victory over five other candidates, including councillor Catherine Lezer and Viktor Ko.
Reynolds, who stepped into the role following Basil Zempilas’ move to state politics, has emphasized his commitment to mending the council’s strained relationship with the state government, a situation that intensified under Zempilas’ tenure.
New Leadership in Cottesloe and Claremont
Meanwhile, the deputy mayor of Cottesloe, Melissa Harkins, appears to have secured the mayoral position. Harkins, who has served on the council for eight years and was endorsed by outgoing mayor Lorraine Young, is poised to take over, pending formal declaration. She defeated Kevin Morgan, who previously led the town from 2008 to 2013.
In Claremont, local business owner Peter Telford has been elected to replace Jock Barker, who served as mayor for 16 years. Similarly, Tony Natale is awaiting formal confirmation as East Fremantle’s new mayor, having bested his only opponent, Thomas Fitzgerald.
Ongoing Contests and Low Voter Turnout
Counting continues in several key mayoral races. In the City of Fremantle, incumbent Hannah Fitzhardinge faces competition from four candidates, including former councillors Marija Vujcic and Ben Lawver. In Perth’s northern suburbs, a seven-way race is underway to succeed Joondalup’s retiring mayor, Albert Jacobs, with former federal MP Ian Goodenough among the contenders.
Early figures from the Western Australian Electoral Commission (WAEC) show a postal vote turnout of 29.7%, down from 32.1% in the previous elections. In-person voting, limited to six councils, was recorded at 17.2% this year. A WAEC spokesperson indicated that final turnout figures would be confirmed next week, though recent elections have averaged between 30 and 32%.
Voter turnout has averaged around 30 to 32 per cent in recent elections.
Debate Over Voting Practices
WA Local Government Association president Karen Chappel noted that a survey of councillors revealed 98% opposition to mandatory voting. This discussion arises as Local Government Minister Hannah Beazley considers implementing compulsory voting and extending councillor terms from two to four years.
Controversial Figures and Election Outcomes
The elections also featured several controversial candidates. In the City of Busselton, Stephen Wells, who describes himself with inflammatory language, appears to have lost his council bid. In Mosman Park, candidate Samuel Croll, facing legal issues, and in Albany, Tamara Frewen, criticized for her social media posts, have drawn attention.
Independent politician Aussie Trump, formerly Ben Dawkins, also ran unsuccessfully in the Shire of Harvey. Trump’s political journey includes expulsion from the Labor Party and a brief stint with One Nation, from which he was later removed.
Challenges in Suspended Councils
The Shire of Coolgardie has recently faced scrutiny over financial management concerns, yet Minister Beazley has not suspended its council. In contrast, the City of Nedlands and Port Hedland have seen their councils replaced with commissioners due to dysfunction and resignations. Voters in these areas will return to the polls in March next year.
This election cycle highlights ongoing challenges in local governance and voter engagement across Western Australia, with implications for future electoral reforms and community involvement.
