A Mandurah councillor has raised concerns that the city's new public health plan could put it in direct competition with local businesses and add financial pressure on ratepayers.
Under the WA Public Health Act 2016, all local governments must develop a public health plan by June 4, 2026, tailored to their community's needs. The City of Mandurah adopted its five-year public health and wellbeing plan at the May 26 council meeting, but not without criticism from Cr Ryan Burns.
Cr Burns acknowledged the necessity of a public health plan and the importance of addressing serious issues like mental health, but he could not support the plan in its current form. He argued that the plan would place an undue burden on households already struggling financially.
“We are spending money raised through compulsory rates when households are under real pressure,” he said. “The report says there’s no additional funding request ... but that is not the same as saying the plan has no cost.”
The city has allocated $33,000 and plans to create a new full-time position to implement the plan. Cr Burns noted that once such expenditure is embedded, it becomes a recurring cost for ratepayers.
He also highlighted that the plan's actions could put the city in competition with small and family-run businesses, citing ratepayer-funded outdoor wellness and fitness classes as an example.
“This may sound harmless, but local gyms, personal trainers, fitness instructors and wellness operators are already trying to survive in a difficult environment,” Cr Burns said. “If the city is serious about supporting local business, that means more than tourism promotion or selective grants.”
Director of place and community Jude Thomas defended the city's role in offering health and wellness activities, stating that free outdoor classes often lead participants to pursue further health commitments elsewhere, including at city facilities like the Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre (MARC). She noted that the MARC provides additional services such as changing facilities, a kiosk, and a creche that smaller businesses may not offer.
Deputy mayor Jess Smith warned that without a public health plan by June 26, the city could miss out on funding and grants. She emphasised the value of community events like a cancer walk on Mother's Day, which foster awareness and advocacy.
“I understand when people are doing it tough, it does often come down to money,” Cr Smith said. “However, we’ve got to remember we are a local government and these sorts of things are what we can do to be bringing our whole community along for the ride.”
Cr Dave Schumacher questioned what assistance the State Government had provided for the plan's preparation. CEO Casey Miholovich confirmed that no funding was provided for preparation, but workshops were held and grants are available for implementation.
Cr Caroline Knight noted that the council had received “extremely positive” feedback on the plan, and Cr Jacob Cumberworth highlighted the benefits of increasing tree canopy cover to create shaded areas for social and physical activities without additional costs to residents.
Cr Burns also raised similar concerns about the city's draft disability access and inclusion plan, which the council voted to release for comment. He sought clarity on which actions were required and the associated costs. Ms Thomas explained that the Disability Services Act does not prescribe specific actions, and it is up to each local government to consult its community and decide what is needed. She added that it was “impossible” to separate access and inclusion provisions from good design, and that this should be a point of pride.
