Sydney Councils confirm position on the Voice referendum

With the issue dominating the spotlight, a Newscorp survey has revealed the position of a number of Sydney-area City Councils in regards to the upcoming Voice referendum.

While a significant percentage of Inner City Councils have confirmed that they will be actively supporting the Yes campaign, a noteworthy number councils in Western Sydney have opted to remain neutral on the issue, instead focusing on service provision and neutrality, regardless of how Mayors or Council Members may speak on the matter publicly.

For example, Hawkesbury Mayor Sarah McMahon has confirmed she will be voting no, Council won't be adopting that position as a result. Alternately, Canada Bay Mayor Angelo Tsirekas will be voting Yes, but has refused to commit council to a stance on the matter.

While the majority of Western Sydney Councils have remained neutral on the matter, Parramatta, Cumberland and Canterbury Councils will offer public support for the Yes vote. There was one glaring absence from the survey, with Penrith City Council yet to confirm their position or lack thereof.

Notably, despite having the option, not one of the surveyed local councils said they would be supporting the ‘No’ campaign, instead taking a neutral stance if not voting Yes.

WHAT DO YOU THINK? Should Councils be taking a stance on a matter like this? Or do they risk alienating themselves from their constituents? Is there already enough information out there? Would your local Council taking a stance have any influence on your own? Let us know in the comments.