Western Australia has swiftly moved to appoint a new Electoral Affairs Commissioner following the sudden and dramatic resignation of the former office holder, Robert Kennedy. The state government has confirmed the appointment of a senior public servant to oversee the integrity of future elections.
A Sudden Vacancy at the Electoral Helm
The position became vacant after Robert Kennedy resigned from the role of Western Australia's Electoral Affairs Commissioner on Friday, May 23, 2025. His departure was described as immediate and followed a period of internal review and tension. Premier Roger Cook acknowledged the resignation, stating it was accepted after discussions regarding the commissioner's performance and the findings of a recent report into the commission's operations.
The government acted quickly to ensure stability, announcing the new appointment just days later. This move aims to maintain public confidence in the electoral process, a cornerstone of the state's democracy.
Meet the New Commissioner
Stepping into the crucial role is Laurie Dyer, a respected and experienced figure within the Western Australian public service. Mr. Dyer is currently the Deputy Director General of the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage. He brings a wealth of administrative experience to the position, which is tasked with conducting state and local government elections impartially.
Premier Cook expressed confidence in the appointment, highlighting Mr. Dyer's proven track record. "His experience in leading complex organisations and his commitment to integrity make him an ideal candidate to lead the commission through its next chapter," the Premier stated. The appointment is set for a five-year term, providing a measure of long-term stability for the independent office.
Restoring Confidence and Looking Ahead
The change in leadership comes at a critical time. The WA Electoral Commission has faced scrutiny, prompting the government-commissioned review led by former Supreme Court justice John McKechnie. The report's findings highlighted areas for improvement within the commission's culture and operations.
Premier Cook framed Mr. Dyer's appointment as the first step in a "reset" for the commission. The government has pledged to implement all recommendations from the McKechnie review to strengthen the institution. The primary goal is to ensure the commission is fully prepared and trusted to deliver the next state election, currently due in 2025, with the highest standards of fairness and efficiency.
The integrity of the electoral system is paramount for public trust. This swift appointment of a new Electoral Affairs Commissioner demonstrates the government's intent to address past issues decisively and uphold the robust democratic processes for which Western Australia is known.
