Secessionism has been a recurring theme in Western Australia’s political narrative, emerging soon after European settlement in 1826. The state’s reluctance to join the Commonwealth of Australia set the stage for ongoing debates about its place within the federation. Unlike other Australian colonies, Western Australia was initially resistant to the idea of federation, largely due to its geographic isolation and differing economic interests. This reluctance stemmed from the fact that Western Australians, especially long-term residents, were opposed to joining the Commonwealth. However, the discovery of gold in the late 19th century led to an influx of immigrants from other parts of Australia, particularly in areas like Kalgoorlie and Albany. These new residents voted in favor of federation, although some even proposed that these areas join the Commonwealth separately under the name "Auralia."

The issue of secession reached a head in 1933 when a referendum saw 68% of voters supporting the idea of Western Australia leaving the Commonwealth and returning to the British Empire as an autonomous territory. This secessionist movement gained traction as dissatisfaction with the Commonwealth government grew. In response, the state government sent a delegation to the British Government in Westminster to seek approval for the proposal. However, the British Government, following the passage of the Statute of Westminster in 1931, ruled that it no longer had the power to amend the Australian Constitution without the approval of the federal government. As a result, the British Government took no further action on the matter, and the secession movement eventually dissipated.

Despite the secessionist movement of the early 20th century, Western Australia remains an integral part of the Commonwealth today. However, the historical desire for greater autonomy continues to influence political discussions in the state.

In addition to its role in the national political landscape, Western Australia is divided into 139 Local Government Areas, including Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. These local governments operate under the Local Government Act 1995, overseeing various administrative duties within their respective jurisdictions.