A resolution to hold a binding Constitutional Referendum on whether the number of Woollahra Councillors should be reduced from 15 to 9 will be held at the next Council election on 14 September 2024. The vote at the Council meeting of 13 May 2024 was along partisan lines – with the 8 Liberals voting for a Referendum and the 5 Residents First and 2 Greens Councillors voting against.

The number of wards will likely be reduced from 5 to 3 if the referendum succeeds but the new boundary lines for the three larger wards will only be worked out after the election, creating a situation where votes will be cast on incomplete information.

Residents First Councillors believe that democracy doesn’t stop at the ballot box. Truly representative democracy relies on residents having ample opportunities to express their views to their elected representatives.

Representation works best if our wards are kept smaller in size, because it allows Councillors to more effectively respond to your concerns.

Maintaining the status quo of 15 elected Councillors – 3 each from the 5 wards – also promotes a diversity of views on Council which creates a more democratic environment leading to more representative decision-making.

We look forward to hearing your views on this important issue. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or require additional information.