Published on Tuesday, 9 June 2026 at 12:42:11 PM
MEDIA STATEMENT
| For immediate release |
Tuesday 9 June 2026 |
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley categorically rejects the inaccurate reporting published by WA Today in the early hours of 9 June 2026 titled “The Perth councils with the highest-paid CEOs.”
The article incorrectly stated that Shire Chief Executive Officer, Ms Tamara Clarkson, was paid $417,000. This figure is factually incorrect and misleading.
The Shire’s Annual Report 2024/25, a publicly available and audited document, clearly outlines total remuneration for the reporting period as follows:
- Tamara Clarkson (TC): $297,000 (includes all roles held during
- Former CEO (AD) who departed during the period: $120,000
Ms Clarkson’s total remuneration of $297,000 reflects her service across multiple roles throughout the financial year, including Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Acting Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Executive Officer, and does not represent remuneration solely for a full-year CEO appointment.
The $417,000 figure appears to be a misrepresentation that aggregates payments made to two separate individuals across the financial year, rather than accurately reflecting the remuneration of the current CEO.
Furthermore, the Shire operates within the statutory framework set by the Salaries and Allowances Tribunal. As a Band 2 local government, the approved Total Remuneration Package (TRP) range for a CEO during the relevant period was:
- Minimum: $228,973
- Maximum: $356,181
Ms Clarkson’s remuneration of $297,000 sits within 3.5% of the absolute midpoint of the approved remuneration spectrum, representing a conservative, middle-of-the-spectrum allocation proportionate to the maximum possible remuneration at that time.
The Shire strongly refutes any suggestion that it has provided a CEO remuneration package exceeding the limits set by the Tribunal in the 2024/25 financial year.
The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley remains firmly committed to:
- Responsible and sustainable financial management
- Transparency and accountability in reporting
- Fair and compliant remuneration practices
As a regional and remote local government, the Shire continues to manage increasing pressures associated with service delivery, infrastructure, and regulatory compliance, while maintaining financial sustainability and delivering essential services across a geographically vast area.
The publication of incorrect remuneration figures potentially undermines public understanding and confidence. The Shire has requested that WA Today correct the record and ensure accurate reporting of publicly available financial information.
ENDS
For media information:
Tamara Clarkson
Chief Executive Officer
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley
PO Box 94 Derby WA 6728
08 9191 0999 I ceo@sdwk.wa.gov.au
Media and Communications Advisor
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley
PO Box 94 Derby WA 6728
08 9191 0999 I media@sdwk.wa.gov.au
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