The Western Australian department of Local Government and the Department of Communities are set to merge under a plan announced by the State Government.

State Local Government and Community Minister Tony Simpsons said the creation of a single department was a ‘logical step to encourage better collaboration to deliver services at a local level’.

“Given their impact on grass roots communities, it is a logical and positive step to merge the departments,” Mr Simpson said.

“By combining these two departments, we can drive a concerted effort to help families and individuals throughout the State access the services they need and develop their communities.