Report on Snowy Valleys Council Demerge Underway

Published on 23 January 2023

The development of the independent report on the advantages and disadvantages of demerging Snowy Valleys Council has commenced with the first steps in engaging with the community scheduled for February.  

Report author and project lead, Professor Joseph Drew of the University of Newcastle, will meet with representatives of key stakeholder groups, Councillors, and Council staff to collect information, feedback, and individual views on the advantages and disadvantages of demerging.  

Additional community-wide meetings will then be held in late March or early April.  

“Following the initial meetings with key stakeholders, I will return to Snowy Valleys to present my draft report at two community meetings,” said Professor Drew. “These meetings will be open for all those interested and I’m looking forward to hearing direct feedback during these forums or via a survey provided to all attendees.”  

In November 2022 Snowy Valleys Council agreed to engage the University of Newcastle to undertake the preparation of a business case, capable of being submitted to the Minister for Local Government on the advantages and disadvantages of de-amalgamation.

Notably, the report will be authored by three professors – two of whom are located abroad. This scholarly rigour and independence will provide the community with maximum assurance regarding recommendations for a path forward.  

The business case, including an independent financial review, will be reported back to Council for further decision and direction once completed.  

“My approach is to lay out the facts, the pros and cons of both sides and I will suggest what I think is in the best interest of your community based on robust, independent, world’s best work,” said Professor Drew. “At the end of the day, the decision to proceed with an application to the Minister for Local Government to demerge is one for the community and current group of Councillors.”  

To introduce himself to the community, Professor Drew has recorded an informational video about the project and his role, which is available on Snowy Valley Council’s website - www.svc.nsw.gov.au/demerger-consideration

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