This special edition of the National Perspective features the winners and commendations from the 2001 National Awards for Innovation in Local Government (NAILG). The entries received for the Awards this year prove that many councils are at the forefront of innovation in their local communities.
The Awards have been running for 14 years and enjoy enthusiastic support from councils across Australia. In that time there has been a shift in the business of Local Government.
We know that the Local Government sector is managing in a new environment and their success depends on their ability to adapt and change. Innovation will always be a vital factor in that future.
Through the Awards, the Federal Government continues to identify, reward and promote the creativity, resourcefulness and leadership going on in councils, their organisations and communities. They help showcase Local Government innovation to the community, industry groups and all spheres of government.
The finalists in each of the 11 categories demonstrated the ability to meet challenges with enthusiasm, resourcefulness and ingenuity.
This year’s National Award winner was the City of Casey for their project Skills for the Future – A Partnership Between the City of Casey, Motorola, DEET and Local Schools. The National Rural Winner was Coorong District Council for their project Coorong Communication Project.
The description of the winning projects is detailed here with contact names for further information.
The National Award winner and National Rural Award winner were announced at the Australian Local Government National General Assembly at the National Convention Centre in Canberra on 27 November.
Each year the standard of entries increases and makes the job of the judges more difficult. Thanks must go to all involved in supporting the Awards particularly the generous sponsors. Many sponsors have committed resources to the Awards year after year in recognition of the vital role Local Government plays in our community.
A series of seminars delivered to over 100 councils and shires around Australia this year featured 2000 Award finalists and was an important way to explain face-to-face the best practice identified through the Awards. Councils were able to exchange innovative solutions relevant to their own local situation.
All entries are listed in the Guide to Leading Practice in Local Government which will be sent to all councils following the announcement of the national winners. Congratulations again to the winners of the 2001 National Awards for Innovation in Local Government.
