Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any jobs going with the Shire?
Council generally advertises vacancies, as they arise, on this website and in the newspapers circulating in the area (Chittering Times and Advocate). Senior positions are also advertised in the 'West Australian' newspaper (Wednesday or Saturday editions)
What are your office hours?
The Office is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Transport licensing is available to 4:00pm.
Do you have a Library?
Yes, the Bindoon Library is located adjacent to the Shire Office and is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm and also on Saturday from 9:00am to noon.
What does it cost to join the Bindoon Library?
Membership is free and open to all ages (with a guardian consent)! You just need to provide suitable identification.
When are Council meetings held?
Meetings are held Wednesday on the 3rd week of each month starting at 7:00pm in the Council Chambers, Bindoon.
Can I attend a Council meeting?
Yes, you would be most welcome.
How many dogs can I have?
In Special Rural and Townsite areas you can have 2 dogs on a property. In rural areas you may have 3 dogs. All dogs must be registered.
Can I live in a shed or caravan on site while my house is being built?
No, you can't. Please check with the Building Officer about temporary accommodation requirements.
Who collects my household rubbish?
Check local newspapers or Business Directory for contractor services.
Do I need a licence to build a dwelling or outbuilding?
All dwellings, outbuilding, sheds, patios, garden sheds etc require a building licence and often planning consent approval also. Please contact the Building Officer and Planning Department for all details required to be submitted for respective applications.
What ward am I in?
2003 marked the Council's first election where no wards were used.
When are Council elections?
Local government elections are held every two years in October. The next election is 2009, 2011 and so on.
Can I vote in Council elections?
All residents are automatically eligible to vote provided that they are already enrolled on the relevant State and Federal electoral roll. Owners of properties who are not resident are not automatically included on the roll. Contact Council staff for more information.
Is there a local history book?
Yes, there are two history books that relate directly to Chittering Shire and both are available in the Bindoon Library - Chittering: Exploration to Shire and Wannamal: A history. Chittering: Exploration to Shire is also available to purchase - contact staff for more info.
Does landcare operate in this Shire?
Yes, staff at Chittering Landcare have been very successful with a number of projects. They can help you with inquiries about weeds, erosion, salt problems, tree planting. Direct your inquiries to the Landcare Office at Old Gingin Road, Muchea or telephone 9571 0200.
Where can I build?
All building location enquiries should be directed to the Planning Department.
Can I put a second hand dwelling on my property?
Second hand dwellings are permitted provided Council approval is given and subject to conditions and bond.
What schools are in the Shire?
There is one Primary School in Bindoon catering for K to year 7's (08 9576 1097) and the Catholic Agricultural College catering for year 8 - 12 co-ed (08 9576 1040).
Where can my kids go to high school?
The Catholic Agricultural College offers a range of subjects for year 8 - 12 students with a focus on agriculture and equine. There is a bus service within the Shire for students travelling to Gingin or Bullsbrook High Schools. Please check with the schools to see where your nearest bus stop is.
Is public transport available?
Public transport via bus is available from Muchea townsite south to Midland. No other services are available. Special bus services run from Muchea during school terms. Westrail bus services arrive and depart from locations in the Shire - contact Westrail for details.
Is there a public swimming pool?
The pool at the Catholic Agricultural College is open to the public during summer months. Vacation swimming is also held at this venue in early January each year. Check with Bindoon Primary School during term 4 for details on dates, cost etc. Another public pool is located in Gingin Townsite please contact Gingin Shire for details.