Media Release

Twelve years in the making: Central Darling Shire holds first meeting with new councillors

Thursday, 4 December 2025

Central Darling Shire Council will today hold its first council meeting with elected councillors in more than 12 years, bringing an end to administration for the state’s largest council.
Following the election of three councillors from the community in September and the appointment of three councillors by the Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig, the council will now get on with the job of representing the communities of the Central Darling Shire.
While Central Darling Shire Council is the first council to operate under the NSW Government’s new Rural and Remote model, councillors will have the same roles and responsibilities as all councillors in NSW.
All six councillors attended an in-person induction and training to ensure they understand their roles and can effectively represent the Shire. A mock council meeting was also held to help councillors prepare for today’s first formal council meeting post-administration.
Former administrator Bob Stewart will act as Chairperson for the new council and will continue to provide strategic direction, working alongside all councillors to ensure the communities of the Shire receive the local services and infrastructure they need.
The Rural and Remote model was introduced by the NSW Government to address the unique challenges of larger remote councils and to provide a pathway back to local government representation for Central Darling.
To support the council’s transition out of administration the NSW Government provided $6 million in funding to help the council deliver local government services, local infrastructure and support long-term financial sustainability.
Member for Barwon Roy Butler said:
“Today is a historic day for the new councillors and the communities of the Central Darling Shire.
It’s been a long time coming, but I’d like to thank the NSW Government and Minister Ron Hoenig for engaging in this project and hearing the concerns and wants of the Shire residents in the solution.
There will be a transition period under this new council model, as the councillors find their feet, but I’m excited to see them get down to business and serve as great community leaders for the Central Darling Shire.”

Troy Lennon | Roy Butler MP | 0447 381 148