Nominations are being sought for the state’s eight regional landscape boards after elections were postponed due to a clash with local government elections.
Under the Landscape South Australia Act 2019, provisions exist for the election of three of the seven members of each board, including one slated for November 11, 2022.
The Local Government Association (LGA) and the Electoral Commission of South Australia (ECSA) both raised concerns with the State Government about the clash.
Primary producers, environmental groups and the boards themselves raised similar concerns, citing low voter turnout, cost and resourcing with running board elections.
These concerns, along with delays by the former government in finalising draft election regulations and procurement arrangements, prompted Environment Minister Susan Close to use her powers under section 15(3) of the Act to appoint members.
Section 15(3) was previously used by former minister David Speirs in relation to the Alinytjara Wilurara Landscape Board.
In place of the elections, an open, transparent, and robust process to appoint members will be undertaken by the Department for Environment and Water.
Nominations have opened through to late September and details will be advertised across the eight regions.
New board members will be appointed from February 2023.
Minister Close said landscape boards played a vital role providing strategic leadership for their region’s landscape management priorities with a focus on land, water, pests and biodiversity.
“We are providing an open and wide ranging opportunity for people to get involved, and doing our due diligence to ensure each board has the right balance of skills, experience and knowledge of landscape management,” Minister Close said.
“It’s important to keep working together to maintain and enhance the health of our landscapes.
“If you are passionate about the natural resources that support the sustainable growth of your industry and community – we want you to apply.
“We need people who can help empower our communities to sustainably manage our state’s landscapes.”
