UPDATE: In a decisive move for local governance, residents of Snowy Valleys Council have overwhelmingly voted to reverse the controversial merger of Tumbarumba and Tumut councils, with 86% of voters endorsing the de-amalgamation in a referendum held on November 29, 2023. This referendum is a direct response to the 2016 decision by the New South Wales (NSW) government, led by former Premier Mike Baird, which many residents now describe as a “structurally flawed” initiative.
The results reveal a community united against the past merger, with a stunning 100% of voters at a polling place in Rosewood casting ‘yes’ votes. Snowy Valleys Mayor Julia Ham expressed that the referendum reflects a “red, hot fury” still felt from 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 autonomy.
The referendum process cost approximately $403,000, with the council responsible for $180,000. The overall cost of the demerger is projected to be around $4.8 million, which will cover essential expenses such as appointing a transition officer and establishing the necessary infrastructure for a new council, including IT and telephone services.
Former Tumbarumba and Snowy Valleys mayor Ian Chaffey highlighted the referendum as a pivotal moment for rural Australians. “This sends a huge message that we are dictated to by the urban component of our society who have no understanding of rural Australia,” he said. Chaffey criticized the initial merger as an oversight that ignored the unique needs of local communities.
Following the referendum, the council will finalize the results on December 16, after which it will begin plans for the demerger. These plans will be submitted to the Minister for Local Government, who will then present them to the Governor for approval.
Current Albury Liberal MP Justin Clancy expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “This outcome marks a new chapter following the hurt and disruption of the flawed merger.” He acknowledged the efforts of community groups and local leaders who fought for the community’s voice.
As the process unfolds, residents are optimistic about the future. Mayor Ham conveyed that, despite the challenges ahead, the overwhelming support for the demerger indicates a community ready for change. “Everyone wants this, and they know it’s going to be tough,” she affirmed.
The Snowy Valleys community’s decisive vote is a testament to the power of local voices and may serve as a precedent for other regions facing similar governance issues. The focus now shifts to implementing the demerger and ensuring that the needs of the community are prioritized in the coming years.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
