The City of Canning council has voted to partially fund Mayor Patrick Hall's attendance at a major international conference in Singapore next year, despite a spirited debate over whether the Perth municipality qualifies as a "world city".
Council Approves Funding Amidst Controversy
At its meeting on December 16, the council voted 7-2 to approve the trip, which will see Mayor Hall attend the World Cities Summit at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre from June 14 to 16, 2025. The approval came with the condition that the city cover approximately $1600 for return airfares from Perth and incidentals.
Mr Hall received a personal invitation from Singapore's Minister for National Development, Chee Hong Tat. The invitation covers the summit registration, accommodation, airport transfers in Singapore, transportation between event venues, and meals.
Mayor Hall declared a financial interest in the proposal and excused himself from the council debate and vote.
The Argument For and Against
Deputy Mayor Mark Bain spoke in favour of the trip, noting that the organisers were covering the bulk of the expenses. "It is only for three days and Mayor Hall is genuine in his desire to go to learn more and to bring back some ideas to share with us," Cr Bain said.
Councillor Linda Ross supported the motion, viewing it as a valuable networking and professional development opportunity for the city's leadership.
However, Councillors Ben Kunze and Michelle Hurn voted against the proposal. Cr Kunze argued that international travel was not part of a local councillor's core role, especially for a municipality like Canning.
"There's no reason why local government elected members or staff should be traveling internationally to perform our role, the caveat perhaps being the Lord Mayors of Perth, Sydney or Brisbane," Cr Kunze stated. "We are proud of Canning and we rightfully see it as an important component of WA. However, as a local government municipality, we're not a world city."
Concerns Over Foreign Influence and Precedent
Both Cr Kunze and Cr Hurn raised concerns about the trip's costs being covered by a foreign government. Cr Kunze warned of the potential for "foreign nation States or corporate entities exerting their soft power" through such invitations.
This will be Mayor Hall's second attendance at the summit. The council previously approved his trip to the 2024 event by a 7-4 vote, which cost the city around $1000 after similar provisions from the Singaporean Government.
City staff recommended approval, stating in their report: "As the mayor of one of WA's largest and most culturally diverse cities, it is both appropriate and beneficial for the mayor to represent the City of Canning at this event, engaging with mayors and civic leaders from around the world."
The summit is described as a global platform for leaders to discuss challenges related to creating liveable and sustainable cities, share solutions, and establish new partnerships. Key events include an invitation-only mayors forum and the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize award ceremony.
