Media Release 2000: New Federal Electoral Boundaries Proposed for Western Australia

25 May 2000

The Redistribution Committee for Western Australia has announced its proposal for the new Federal electoral boundaries in the State.

The Electoral Commissioner, Mr Andy Becker, said today that the redistribution of Western Australia was necessary because of an increased entitlement to 15 members in the House of Representatives at the next general election. Western Australia currently has 14 Federal Members.

"In developing its proposal, the Redistribution Committee took account of the suggestions and comments received, particularly as they relate to communities of interest," he said.

"The proposed new boundaries also make use of local government boundaries, main roads, waterways and other geographical features. Particular In addition, attention has been paid to transport and communication links across and between communities."

Mr Becker said that the Redistribution Committee recommended the name of HASLUCK for the new Division, in recognition of the contribution to Western Australia and Australia of both Sir Paul Hasluck and Dame Alexandra Hasluck.

The full Proposal report, including and outline maps, is are available on the Australian Electoral Commission's website at www.aec.gov.au. Copies of the Report, including detailed maps, are available from the office of the Australian Electoral Officer for Western Australia, 28 Thorogood Street, Burswood Phone (08) 9470 7299. It can also be inspected at the AEC's Head Office in each capital city, and at the its Central Office in Canberra.

People have until Friday 23 June 2000 to lodge objections to any aspect of the Proposal.

The Redistribution Committee for Western Australia consists of the Electoral Commissioner, Mr Andy Becker; the Australian Electoral Officer for Western Australia, Mr Andrew Moyes; the Surveyor-General for Western Australia, Mr Henry Houghton, and the Auditor-General for Western Australia, Mr Des Pearson. Any objections to the Proposal will be considered by the augmented Electoral Commission, which comprises the Chairman of the AEC, The Hon Trevor Morling QC; the non judicial member of the AEC, and the members of the Redistribution Committee.

Further information: Mr Andrew Moyes, Burswood Tel: (08) 9470 7299

Mr Wayne Seymour, Canberra Tel: (02) 6271 4688