In 2006, WACRA decided that it would take a step back from being the principal organiser of SWEC and in doing so we agreed that we would put a questionnaire to all members of the SA State Parliament leading up to the state election. WACRA felt that the state government and energy retailers had made some improvements after extensive lobbying, and we were confident that SWEC had become the main voice of consumers. Richard Smith and Jim Douglas from WACRA and spokespersons for SWEC gained agreement on the questionnaire and also circulated the results widely through the SWEC. They reported that: It was reassuring that most parties and independents are committed to ongoing support for non-disconnections of energy to people with chronic health needs and that an urgent review of the present payment methods would be supported. In addition, there was support for the Energy Friends home energy audit scheme. However, the issue of withdrawing the GST component was the least supported. Leaders in renewable energy development
The privatisation of the Electricity Trust of SA (ETSA) by the Olsen Liberal Government created far greater hardship for vulnerable households. ESCOSA, in our view, have failed to protect vulnerable and in-hardship households. Energy prices continue to rise and there is scant respect for the voices of social justice and welfare organisations who continue to represent those most in need of support. On a positive note, we are pleased to say that SWEC did make some gains and that the Rann/Weatherill governments have placed this state in a leadership position on renewable energy development and a greater awareness of the need to urgently address the effects of climate change. Working together for the greater good Paul Sutton, CEO, City of Charles Sturt
My comments will be general in terms of community groups, but I’ll make them specific to WACRA when I can. I have been CEO at Charles Sturt Council for 11 years; prior to this I spent 13 years at two other councils: the City of Salisbury and City of Unley. It has been interesting to work at different councils, mostly because of their diversity in socioeconomic terms. I have always valued working with community groups in a constructive way. Most of my involvement with WACRA has been through Jim Douglas in his time as president, and more recently with Paul Laris. Jim and I have got to know each other well over the last decade or so and that relationship has reflected WACRA’s interests in a variety of things that have been happening in our city. This includes development and heritage in our area, community and public art, traffic management and car parking, particularly around the Henley Beach area, and coastal issues. WACRA has been a supporter of council playing a role in managing the late-night economy and once again, we find ourselves together in discussions about the business activity around Henley Square. Sometimes there is a contentious issue. There has been a growth in eating venues surrounding Henley Square. Seating places at restaurants and their increase has resulted in disagreement at times between WACRA and the restaurant and café trades. Here we need to consult with all stakeholders, considering the planning act, the number of 115
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