 Local government in the area was first established with the Municipality of Coonamble formed on 3 May 1880.Wingadee Shire was formed later, one of 134 shires proclaimed on 7 March 1906 following passing of the "Local Government (Shires) Act 1905".Coonamble Shire itself was formed on 1 May 1952 from the amalgamation of the Municipality of Coonamble with Wingadee Shire.