Kimberley council to scrap COVID-19 policy

The Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley has formally rescinded its COVID-19 emergency response and recovery policy, marking a clear transition away from pandemic-specific governance measures.

The motion to rescind the policy was passed at the council meeting on March 24, after being first adopted in April 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 crisis.

The policy played a key role in guiding the shire’s response, providing direction on emergency management, adjustments to services, financial hardship support and advocacy efforts during an unprecedented global event.

However, council officers advised that the policy had served its purpose and was no longer required as a standalone document.

Wyndham East Kimberley shire president David Menzel said “Let’s hope we never see that (COVID-19) again.”

Council officers emphasised that removing the COVID-19 policy would not impact future emergency preparedness, with appropriate mechanisms remaining in place to respond effectively to any new crisis.