Michael Gorey

We assume the right to vote is enshrined in a democracy. Exercising that right requires the provision of polling apparatus.
The weekend election in Western Australia raises some questions about how well geared state electoral commissions are in this regard.
I voted absentee because we recently moved from Kalgoorlie. (more…)

I’ve published an article by Linette Treasure, of Buchan, in the Alpine Community Forum regarding process implications in local government.
This will interest everyone who’s concerned about the loss of democracy in Victorian councils since the so-called Kennett reforms and subsequent changes by the Labor Government.
The only true democracy in local government now occurs every four [...]

I took the big kids and two of their friends to Wangaratta today to see Star Wars. While they were watching the latest in science fiction, I relaxed to view My House in Umbria.
To save some summary text, here’s the "New York Times" version … (more…)

Next week’s Alpine Shire Council agenda carries a recommendation
from the Chief Executive, Doug Sharp, to adopt the draft Code of
Governance without alteration.
My submission, referred to here, was the only one received.
Mr Sharp summarises my submission in very selective fashion. He
completely fails to address the major points I made regarding dissent
and briefing sessions.
Justification for the code [...]

The Victorian Government required all local councils to adopt codes of conduct by January 31, 2004. Alpine Shire has recently advertised a draft code of governance, including a code of conduct, for public comment.
I’m very concerned about the draft document and its focus on undermining democratic conventions, particularly the right of public scrutiny.
If people are [...]