Public question time

What is Public Question Time?

• It is time set aside during a meeting to hear questions from the public that relate to the business of the Council or the Committee
• The time is available only for asking questions, not for making statements or expressing personal opinions 
• Time limits may be applied at the meeting 
• No discussion of the question or answer can take place at the meeting
• The Presiding Member may reject a question that is considered either offensive or reflects adversely on the City, the Council or an employee
• The applicable law is Section 5.24 of the Local Government Act 1995

To raise a question prior to the meeting

• Using the City’s online form, submit your written question 24 hours prior to the meeting

Can I raise a question at the meeting?

• Complete this form and hand to a City of Perth officer before the meeting commences

What happens at the meeting?

Questions received with more than 24 hours’ notice:

• The member of the public may elect to attend and read their questions aloud
  OR
• Provide their questions to be taken on notice to be recorded in the minutes of the meeting.

Questions received with less than 24 hours’ notice:

• Questions will be automatically taken on notice and recorded in the minutes of the meeting.

When is a response provided?

• If questions are provided with more than 24 hours’ notice, we will endeavour to provide a response at the meeting. The questions will also be recorded in the minutes of the meeting. 
• If the question is provided with less than 24 hours’ notice, a response will be provided and recorded in the next Ordinary Council Meeting agenda.