The cost of airfares, accommodation, transfers and security for Ms Brockovich and her personal assistant were met by the WA Local Government Association as part of her keynote address to the Local Government Convention and a separate public lunch hosted by WALGA.

WALGA President Cr Bill Mitchell said it was important that both the community and media were aware that these significant expenses were not part of the costs of any legal action.

For example, in The Australian newspaper this morning it was reported:
“Through law firm Masry & Vititoe, she has joined forces with Queensland law firm Shine Lawyers to consider a lawsuit against Alcoa. The two firms covered the cost of Ms Brockovich’s trip to Australia and Shine is working on a no-win, no-fee basis".

Cr Mitchell said neither law firm had met or offered to meet any of the expenses arising from airfares, accommodation, transfers and security involved with Ms Brockovich’s visit to WA.

He also said that the investigation being undertaken by the law firms into possible action against Alcoa was in no way associated with WALGA.

“Ms Brockovich and her legal team have used the opportunity while in Western Australia to investigate claims made to them completely separate to her arrangements with WALGA and our speaking requirements,” Cr Mitchell said.

“Of course outside of our speaking requirements, Ms Brockovich is entitled to pursue her private or business activities while in WA however it is important that the source of payment of the most significant expenses associated with the trip are accurately recorded on the public record.”