- Martin Aldridge appointed Commissioner to the Shire of Carnarvon
- Appointment follows resignation of Shire president and five councillors, leaving the council without quorum
- Commissioner to serve until a new council is elected in December 2026
The Hon Martin Aldridge has been appointed Commissioner to lead the Shire of Carnarvon until December 2026.
Local Government Minister Hannah Beazley today announced the appointment, which follows the resignation of the former Shire president and five councillors.
With the Shire unable to achieve the quorum necessary to function, the remaining two council positions have been declared vacant.
The Commissioner will perform the duties of the council and exercise its powers to ensure the Shire continues to function and deliver services to the community.
Mr Aldridge is a former Member of the Legislative Council (2013-2025) who served as the Shadow Local Government Minister and was a member of the Select Committee into Local Government.
He has more than 20 years' experience in leadership roles in both the government and private sectors and most recently undertook the role of Deputy Chair of Commissioners for the Town of Port Hedland between 3 September 2025 and 28 March 2026.
The Commissioner will replace the Council of the Shire of Carnarvon until an election is held on Thursday, 3 December 2026 and the new council has held its first meeting.
As stated by Local Government Minister Hannah Beazley:
"As Minister for Local Government, I want to ensure that stability is restored at the Shire of Carnarvon so that it can continue to function effectively and deliver for its community.
"Appointing a highly experienced and well-regarded Commissioner is a step toward achieving this stability, while also providing certainty for residents and ratepayers.
"I strongly urge residents to vote in December to elect a council that serves the needs and interests of the local community."
