For years, WA’s Legislative Council guaranteed representation for regional communities. The Council was divided into six regions, with each region electing six representatives. This system wasn’t perfect, but it ensured that every part of WA—from the city to the bush—had a voice in Parliament.
However, in 2021, WA Labor broke their promise. When asked if he would overhaul the state’s electoral system if Labor won a second term, WA Premier Mark McGowan said;
“I have been clear and I will be clear again. It is not on our agenda. Enhanced regional representation will continue1.”
Just six months later, WA Labor scrapped the regional seats and replaced them with a “one-vote, one-value” system. Now, the Council consists of 36 seats representing the entire state, similar to a mini Senate.
So, what does this mean for Western Australians?
- Less Regional Representation– Under the new system, there’s a much higher chance that metro-based candidates will dominate the Legislative Council. With most of WA’s population concentrated in the Perth metro area, regional communities risk losing their voice on critical issues like agriculture, transport, and infrastructure.
Regional WA faces unique challenges that city-based representatives may not fully understand or prioritise. These issues need local advocates who live and breathe the realities of regional life—not just politicians with a metro focus. - Reduced Voter Choice– The new system also makes it harder for Independents and smaller parties to get elected. Larger political parties will benefit the most by consolidating their power in Parliament. This reduces the diversity of voices and ideas in the Legislative Council, which is critical to holding the government accountable.
A Parliament dominated by major parties risks losing the checks and balances needed to ensure decisions are made in the best interests of all Western Australians, not just party agendas.
But Wasn’t the Old System Unfair?
Some argue that the previous system gave regional votes more weight than metro votes, which was “unfair” or “outdated.” While it’s true that regions had proportionally higher representation, this wasn’t about unfair advantages—it was about ensuring equity, not just equality.
Regional WA faces unique challenges that metro areas don’t:
- Vast distances and isolation.
- Limited access to healthcare, education, telecommunications and infrastructure.
- A reliance on industries like agriculture, mining, and tourism that need tailored support.
These challenges demand strong advocacy in Parliament, which the old system provided. Without guaranteed regional representation, there’s a real risk these issues will be overshadowed by metro priorities.
As for claims that this change brings WA into the “21st century,” let’s be clear: modernisation shouldn’t come at the cost of fairness. A system that values every part of our state—metro and regional alike—is the real measure of progress.
Have Regions Been Left Behind?
The old system wasn’t perfect, but it gave regional WA a guaranteed seat at the table. Now, many feel that regional communities have been sold out for city votes. This raises important questions:
Who will understand and fight for the unique challenges faced by regional WA?
Will city-dominated representation really prioritise the needs of farmers & fishers, small towns, and remote communities?
Are we creating a system that truly represents the diversity of WA?
What Can You Do?
The WA State Election is in March 2025, it’s vital to think about who you will vote for to stand up for you and your community.
If you’re in the regions: Vote for someone who understands your challenges and will fight for your community.
If you’re in the metro: Choose a representative who puts you and your needs above party politics.
Christiane Smith is running as an Independent because she believes WA deserves leadership that prioritises people over politics. “I am not here to keep a seat warm or follow a party line. I’m here to work for YOU and ensure every voice across WA is heard.”
Christiane Smith
Independent for WA Legislative Council
1 https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-09-16/wa-voting-reform-upper-house-mark-mcgowan/100464954