A major review of ACT governance has recommended expanding the Legislative Assembly from its current 25 members to 35, arguing that the growing workload requires additional politicians to safeguard democratic processes.

The report, released quietly last week, states that the territory's achievements risk being undermined by an insufficient number of elected representatives.

While local councils were previously considered as a solution, the review emphasizes that increasing parliamentary membership is a more cost-effective approach.This recommendation aligns with earlier proposals from 2013 and 2014, which suggested expanding to 25 members in 2016 and 35 by 2020.However, current Chief Minister Andrew Barr has previously dismissed the need for expansion, citing fiscal concerns.

The review also calls for reforms such as establishing an independent panel for judicial appointments and requiring all Assembly members to disclose meetings with lobbyists.These proposals aim to enhance transparency and accountability in ACT governance.