Division Description Changes — Bills — Constitution Alteration (Local Government) 2013; Second Reading — 24th Jun 2013

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senate vote 2013-06-24#7 Edited by Henare Degan on 2014-10-10 15:17:43	Title Description The majority voted against a [motion](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22) that: _further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution._ This motion was introduced by Senator [George Brandis](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate) and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally. ~~_Background to the bill_~~ This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [Australian Constitution](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia). Previous attempts occurred in [1974](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29) and [1988](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29). Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.(For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [report](http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf) (906 KB). ) Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states. Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [Section 128](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128) apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means: ~~- more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and~~ - more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')(Read more about what a double majority is [here](http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm).) More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [here](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22) (775 KB) in its bills digest. This division relates to the Policy _[For constitutional recognition of local government](/policies/10)_. The majority voted against a [motion](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22) that: _further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution._ This motion was introduced by Senator [George Brandis](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate) and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally. _Background to the bill_ This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [Australian Constitution](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia). Previous attempts occurred in [1974](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29) and [1988](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29). Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.(For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [report](http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf) (906 KB). ) Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states. Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [Section 128](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128) apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means: - more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and - more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')(Read more about what a double majority is [here](http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm).) More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [here](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22) (775 KB) in its bills digest. References
senate vote 2013-06-24#7 Edited by system on 2014-10-07 16:20:55	Title Description The majority voted against a [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22 motion] that: ''further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution.'' This motion was introduced by Senator [http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate George Brandis] and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally. ~~''Background to the bill''~~ This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia Australian Constitution]. Previous attempts occurred in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29 1974] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29 1988]. Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.(For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf report] (906 KB). ) Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states. Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128 Section 128] apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means: * more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and * more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')(Read more about what a double majority is [http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm here].) More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22 here] (775 KB) in its bills digest. ~~References~~ The majority voted against a [motion](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22) that: _further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution._ This motion was introduced by Senator [George Brandis](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate) and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally. _Background to the bill_ This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [Australian Constitution](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia). Previous attempts occurred in [1974](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29) and [1988](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29). Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.(For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [report](http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf) (906 KB). ) Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states. Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [Section 128](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128) apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means: - more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and - more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')(Read more about what a double majority is [here](http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm).) More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [here](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22) (775 KB) in its bills digest. References
senate vote 2013-06-24#7 Edited by system on 2014-10-07 16:16:51	Title Description The majority voted against a [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22 motion] that: ''further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution.'' This motion was introduced by Senator [http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate George Brandis] and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally. ''Background to the bill'' This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia Australian Constitution]. Previous attempts occurred in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29 1974] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29 1988]. Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.[1] Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states. Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.(For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf report] (906 KB). ) Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states. Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128 Section 128] apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means: * more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and ~~* more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')[2]~~ * more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')(Read more about what a double majority is [http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm here].) More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22 here] (775 KB) in its bills digest. References * [1] For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf report] (906 KB). * [2] Read more about what a double majority is [http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm here].
senate vote 2013-06-24#7 Edited by mackay staff on 2014-03-03 11:00:48	Title Bills - Constitution Alteration (Local Government) 2013; Second Reading Constitution Alteration (Local Government) 2013 - Second Reading - Fund yes and no campaigns equally Description <p>The no votes succeeded in dismissing an amendment that would require the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally. This was a vote on the amendment proposed by <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Senator Brandis</a>.</p> The majority voted against a [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22 motion] that: ''further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution.'' ~~<p>Someone who votes aye in this division supports this amendment. The majority voted no so the amendment was unsuccessfull.</p>~~ This motion was introduced by Senator [http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate George Brandis] and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally. ~~<p><b>Background to Bill</b></p>~~ <p>This is the third attempt to have local government recognised in the <a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Senate/Powers_practice_n_procedures/~/media/AC79BBA0B87A4906A6D71ACCEEF10535.ashx">Australian Constitution</a>. Pervious attempts occurred in 1974 and 1988. Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government. Currently the Federal Government can only fund local Government vis-à-vis the states. </p> ''Background to the bill'' <p>Because this Bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under <a href="http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm">Section 128</a> apply. This includes that the Bill must pass both Houses of Parliament and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. The majority of both voters in the states must support this legislation and voters in Federal Parliament in order for a constitutional change to be successful.</p> This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia Australian Constitution]. Previous attempts occurred in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29 1974] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29 1988]. <p>An <a href="http://www.localgovrecognition.gov.au/">Expert Panel</a> to explore the issue of constitutional recognition of local government released it's <a href="http://localgovrecognition.gov.au/sites/localgovrecognition.gov.au/files/ExpertPanel-FinalReport.pdf ">final report</a> on 22 December 2011. On 9 May 2013 <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Julia_Gillard&mpc=Lalor&house=representatives">Prime Minister Gillard</a> announced that the referendum would take place on 14 September 2013, the same day as the proposed federal election. However when <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kevin_Rudd&mpc=Griffith&house=representatives">Prime Minister Rudd</a> came to power the federal election date was moved to 7 September. As such, the referendum for the recognition of local government is was <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-08-05/election-date-puts-local-government-constitutional-recognition/4865116">put on hold</a>. It is not yet known if or when the <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Tony_Abbott&mpc=Warringah&house=representatives ~~">Abbott</a> Government will hold a referendum on local government.</p>~~ Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.[1] Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states. <p>The State governments generally support constitutional recognition of local government in principal, but express concern that this will come at the expense of state powers. </p> Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128 Section 128] apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means: * more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and * more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')[2] <p>More information about this Bill and the context surround it can be found <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22">here</a>. More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22 here] (775 KB) in its bills digest. References * [1] For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf report] (906 KB). * [2] Read more about what a double majority is [http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm here].
senate vote 2013-06-24#7 Edited by Natasha Burrows on 2013-10-15 17:48:13	Title ~~Bills — Constitution Alteration (Local Government) 2013; Second Reading~~ Bills - Constitution Alteration (Local Government) 2013; Second Reading Description ~~<p class='motion-notice motion-notice-truncated'>Long debate text truncated.</p>~~ <p>The no votes succeeded in dismissing an amendment that would require the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally. This was a vote on the amendment proposed by <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Senator Brandis</a>.</p> <p>Someone who votes aye in this division supports this amendment. The majority voted no so the amendment was unsuccessfull.</p> <p><b>Background to Bill</b></p> <p>This is the third attempt to have local government recognised in the <a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Senate/Powers_practice_n_procedures/~/media/AC79BBA0B87A4906A6D71ACCEEF10535.ashx">Australian Constitution</a>. Pervious attempts occurred in 1974 and 1988. Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government. Currently the Federal Government can only fund local Government vis-à-vis the states. </p> <p>Because this Bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under <a href="http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm">Section 128</a> apply. This includes that the Bill must pass both Houses of Parliament and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. The majority of both voters in the states must support this legislation and voters in Federal Parliament in order for a constitutional change to be successful.</p> <p>An <a href="http://www.localgovrecognition.gov.au/">Expert Panel</a> to explore the issue of constitutional recognition of local government released it's <a href="http://localgovrecognition.gov.au/sites/localgovrecognition.gov.au/files/ExpertPanel-FinalReport.pdf ">final report</a> on 22 December 2011. On 9 May 2013 <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Julia_Gillard&mpc=Lalor&house=representatives">Prime Minister Gillard</a> announced that the referendum would take place on 14 September 2013, the same day as the proposed federal election. However when <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kevin_Rudd&mpc=Griffith&house=representatives">Prime Minister Rudd</a> came to power the federal election date was moved to 7 September. As such, the referendum for the recognition of local government is was <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-08-05/election-date-puts-local-government-constitutional-recognition/4865116">put on hold</a>. It is not yet known if or when the <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Tony_Abbott&mpc=Warringah&house=representatives ">Abbott</a> Government will hold a referendum on local government.</p> <p>The State governments generally support constitutional recognition of local government in principal, but express concern that this will come at the expense of state powers. </p> <p>More information about this Bill and the context surround it can be found <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22">here</a>.

Change

Division

senate vote 2013-06-24#7

Edited by Henare Degan

on 2014-10-10 15:17:43

Title

Description

The majority voted against a [motion](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22) that: _further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution._
This motion was introduced by Senator [George Brandis](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate) and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally.
~~_Background to the bill_~~
This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [Australian Constitution](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia). Previous attempts occurred in [1974](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29) and [1988](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29).
Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.(For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [report](http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf) (906 KB). ) Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states.
Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [Section 128](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128) apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means:
~~- more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and~~
- more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')(Read more about what a double majority is [here](http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm).)
More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [here](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22) (775 KB) in its bills digest.
This division relates to the Policy _[For constitutional recognition of local government](/policies/10)_.
The majority voted against a [motion](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22) that: _further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution._
This motion was introduced by Senator [George Brandis](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate) and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally.
_Background to the bill_
This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [Australian Constitution](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia). Previous attempts occurred in [1974](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29) and [1988](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29).
Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.(For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [report](http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf) (906 KB). ) Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states.
Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [Section 128](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128) apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means:
- more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and
- more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')(Read more about what a double majority is [here](http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm).)
More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [here](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22) (775 KB) in its bills digest.
References

senate vote 2013-06-24#7

Edited by system

on 2014-10-07 16:20:55

Title

Description

The majority voted against a [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22 motion] that:
''further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution.''
This motion was introduced by Senator [http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate George Brandis] and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally.
~~''Background to the bill''~~
This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia Australian Constitution]. Previous attempts occurred in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29 1974] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29 1988].
Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.(For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf report] (906 KB). ) Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states.
Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128 Section 128] apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means:
* more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and
* more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')(Read more about what a double majority is [http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm here].)
More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22 here] (775 KB) in its bills digest.
~~References~~
The majority voted against a [motion](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22) that: _further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution._
This motion was introduced by Senator [George Brandis](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate) and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally.
_Background to the bill_
This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [Australian Constitution](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia). Previous attempts occurred in [1974](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29) and [1988](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29).
Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.(For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [report](http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf) (906 KB). ) Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states.
Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [Section 128](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128) apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means:
- more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and
- more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')(Read more about what a double majority is [here](http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm).)
More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [here](http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22) (775 KB) in its bills digest.
References

senate vote 2013-06-24#7

Edited by system

on 2014-10-07 16:16:51

Title

Description

The majority voted against a [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22 motion] that:
''further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution.''
This motion was introduced by Senator [http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate George Brandis] and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally.
''Background to the bill''
This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia Australian Constitution]. Previous attempts occurred in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29 1974] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29 1988].
Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.[1] Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states.
Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.(For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf report] (906 KB). ) Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states.
Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128 Section 128] apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means:
* more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and
~~* more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')[2]~~
* more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')(Read more about what a double majority is [http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm here].)
More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22 here] (775 KB) in its bills digest.
References
* [1] For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf report] (906 KB).
* [2] Read more about what a double majority is [http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm here].

senate vote 2013-06-24#7

Edited by mackay staff

on 2014-03-03 11:00:48

Title

Bills - Constitution Alteration (Local Government) 2013; Second Reading
Constitution Alteration (Local Government) 2013 - Second Reading - Fund yes and no campaigns equally

Description

The no votes succeeded in dismissing an amendment that would require the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally. This was a vote on the amendment proposed by <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Senator Brandis</a>.
The majority voted against a [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0041;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F8bd37f80-48cf-484c-b5d6-09eeba7b9c15%2F0000%22 motion] that:
''further consideration of the bill be made an order of the day for the first sitting day after the Government puts into place financial arrangements to provide for equal funding for both the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ cases, to ensure that the Australian community is properly informed about the arguments for and against the proposed change to the Constitution.''
~~Someone who votes aye in this division supports this amendment. The majority voted no so the amendment was unsuccessfull.~~
This motion was introduced by Senator [http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate George Brandis] and would have required the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally.
~~Background to Bill~~
This is the third attempt to have local government recognised in the <a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Senate/Powers_practice_n_procedures/~/media/AC79BBA0B87A4906A6D71ACCEEF10535.ashx">Australian Constitution</a>. Pervious attempts occurred in 1974 and 1988. Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government. Currently the Federal Government can only fund local Government vis-à-vis the states.
''Background to the bill''
Because this Bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under <a href="http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm">Section 128</a> apply. This includes that the Bill must pass both Houses of Parliament and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. The majority of both voters in the states must support this legislation and voters in Federal Parliament in order for a constitutional change to be successful.
This bill represents a third attempt to have local government recognised in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Australia Australian Constitution]. Previous attempts occurred in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1974_%28Local_Government_Bodies%29 1974] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_referendum,_1988_%28Local_Government%29 1988].
An <a href="http://www.localgovrecognition.gov.au/">Expert Panel</a> to explore the issue of constitutional recognition of local government released it's <a href="http://localgovrecognition.gov.au/sites/localgovrecognition.gov.au/files/ExpertPanel-FinalReport.pdf ">final report</a> on 22 December 2011. On 9 May 2013 <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Julia_Gillard&mpc=Lalor&house=representatives">Prime Minister Gillard</a> announced that the referendum would take place on 14 September 2013, the same day as the proposed federal election. However when <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kevin_Rudd&mpc=Griffith&house=representatives">Prime Minister Rudd</a> came to power the federal election date was moved to 7 September. As such, the referendum for the recognition of local government is was <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-08-05/election-date-puts-local-government-constitutional-recognition/4865116">put on hold</a>. It is not yet known if or when the <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Tony_Abbott&mpc=Warringah&house=representatives
~~">Abbott</a> Government will hold a referendum on local government.~~
Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government.[1] Currently the Federal Government can only fund local governments through the states.
The State governments generally support constitutional recognition of local government in principal, but express concern that this will come at the expense of state powers.
Because this bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_128_of_the_Australian_Constitution#Section_128 Section 128] apply. These conditions include that the bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. To be successful, there must be a double majority, which means:
* more than half of voters in Australia must vote 'Yes'; and
* more than half of voters in more than half the States must vote 'Yes' (in other words, a majority of voters in at least four of the six States must vote 'Yes')[2]
More information about this Bill and the context surround it can be found <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22">here</a>.
More information about this Bill and the context surrounding it can be found [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22 here] (775 KB) in its bills digest.
References
* [1] For an academic discussion of what it means to recognise local government in the Constitution and the background of this latest attempt to do so, see Professor Anne Twomey's [http://sydney.edu.au/law/cru/documents/2013/CRU_Report_3_%20Local_Government.pdf report] (906 KB).
* [2] Read more about what a double majority is [http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm here].

senate vote 2013-06-24#7

Edited by Natasha Burrows

on 2013-10-15 17:48:13

Title

~~Bills — Constitution Alteration (Local Government) 2013; Second Reading~~
Bills - Constitution Alteration (Local Government) 2013; Second Reading

Description

~~Long debate text truncated.~~
The no votes succeeded in dismissing an amendment that would require the Federal Government to fund the yes and no campaigns for constitutional recognition of local government equally. This was a vote on the amendment proposed by <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=George_Brandis&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Senator Brandis</a>.
Someone who votes aye in this division supports this amendment. The majority voted no so the amendment was unsuccessfull.
Background to Bill
This is the third attempt to have local government recognised in the <a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Senate/Powers_practice_n_procedures/~/media/AC79BBA0B87A4906A6D71ACCEEF10535.ashx">Australian Constitution</a>. Pervious attempts occurred in 1974 and 1988. Recognition of local government in the Constitution would mean that the Commonwealth can directly fund local government. Currently the Federal Government can only fund local Government vis-à-vis the states.
Because this Bill requires altering the Constitution, conditions under <a href="http://www.aec.gov.au/elections/referendums/Referendums_Overview.htm">Section 128</a> apply. This includes that the Bill must pass both Houses of Parliament and then be submitted to voters in the states and territories in the form of a referendum. The majority of both voters in the states must support this legislation and voters in Federal Parliament in order for a constitutional change to be successful.
An <a href="http://www.localgovrecognition.gov.au/">Expert Panel</a> to explore the issue of constitutional recognition of local government released it's <a href="http://localgovrecognition.gov.au/sites/localgovrecognition.gov.au/files/ExpertPanel-FinalReport.pdf ">final report</a> on 22 December 2011. On 9 May 2013 <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Julia_Gillard&mpc=Lalor&house=representatives">Prime Minister Gillard</a> announced that the referendum would take place on 14 September 2013, the same day as the proposed federal election. However when <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kevin_Rudd&mpc=Griffith&house=representatives">Prime Minister Rudd</a> came to power the federal election date was moved to 7 September. As such, the referendum for the recognition of local government is was <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-08-05/election-date-puts-local-government-constitutional-recognition/4865116">put on hold</a>. It is not yet known if or when the <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Tony_Abbott&mpc=Warringah&house=representatives
">Abbott</a> Government will hold a referendum on local government.
The State governments generally support constitutional recognition of local government in principal, but express concern that this will come at the expense of state powers. 
More information about this Bill and the context surround it can be found <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/legislation/billsdgs/2531622/upload_binary/2531622.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf#search=%22r5071%22">here</a>.