17Merger of local government areas or division of local

17 Merger of local government areas or division of local government area (1) This section applies if the Administrator (or the Minister): (a) merges 2 or more local government areas under section 16(1)(b) or (2); or (b) divides a local government area into 2 or more local government areas under section 16(1)(c) or (2). (2) If there has been no substantial change affecting the electoral representation of a ward in the area, the Administrator may, by Gazette notice, make a declaration that the member or members of

Local Government Act 2019 16 the ward continue to hold office as a member or members of the council after the merger or division. (3) If a principal member continues to hold office under subsection (2), the principal member ceases to hold office as a principal member but continues to hold office as a member of the council after the merger or division. (4) The Administrator may, by Gazette notice, make a declaration that the principal member is to be elected or appointed after the merger or division. (5) The Minister may also, by Gazette notice, exercise the power conferred by subsection (2) or (4).