Residents of the Snowy Valleys Council have decisively voted to reverse a controversial council merger, with an overwhelming 86 percent supporting the de-amalgamation in a referendum held on November 29, 2023. This action aims to undo a 2016 decision by the New South Wales government that combined the Tumbarumba and Tumut councils. The referendum result is seen as a significant victory for regional Australians, reflecting deep-rooted sentiments against government decisions perceived as imposed on local communities.
Community Response and Leadership Perspectives
Snowy Valleys Mayor Julia Ham remarked that the referendum demonstrates the ongoing “red, hot fury” felt by residents over the forced merger. “It sends a really strong message that people don’t like governments coming in and making decisions for them,” she stated, emphasizing the need for local voices to be heard. The cost of conducting the referendum was $403,000, with the council responsible for 45 percent, or $180,000.
The entire demerger process is projected to cost around $4.8 million, an investment that Mayor Ham believes is justified by the community’s overwhelming support. “Everyone wants this and they know it’s going to be tough, they know it’s going to be hard,” she said. “But people will be a lot more happier where they live.” The funds will be allocated toward hiring a transition officer and establishing essential services for the new council.
Former mayor Ian Chaffey added that the demerger has been nearly a decade in the making. He stressed that this outcome sends a clear message about the treatment of rural Australians by urban-centric governments. “It sends a huge message that we are dictated to by the urban component of our society who have no understanding of rural Australia,” he stated. Chaffey criticized the original merger, describing it as “structurally flawed from day one” and noting that its anticipated benefits were unrealistic.
Political Implications and Next Steps
The forced merger was initiated under the leadership of then-premier Mike Baird, representing a broader movement within the NSW Coalition government. Local representatives, including Justin Clancy, the member for Albury, expressed their satisfaction with the referendum results. “This outcome marks a new chapter following the hurt and disruption of the flawed merger,” he said, acknowledging the efforts of community groups and previous councillors who campaigned for the vote.
As the referendum results are finalized on December 16, the current council will initiate plans for the demerger, which will be presented to the Minister for Local Government. Following that, approval from the governor will be sought to formally establish two separate councils.
The outcome of this referendum not only reshapes local governance but also reflects a growing sentiment among rural communities advocating for greater autonomy and recognition. With the demerger process set to take at least two years, the path ahead will require concerted effort from both leaders and residents to ensure a successful transition.
