This is how we announced our launch in the printed edition of FOCUS
With the launch of FOCUS Online located at www.loc-gov-focus.aus.net we are entering an arena where there are still more unknowns than there are knowns. It is new territory for us as it is for most Councils across Australia. Uncharted though it is, we believe the interactive capacity of the Internet and its predicted growth has the potential to position Local Government for the future in its rightful place as a partner in governing Australia.
In the 10 Year Commemorative Edition of Local Government FOCUS, published in October 1995, we stated “…FOCUS looks forward to another 10 years where change, world best practice and increasing community involvement in the workings of government will undoubtedly continue to drive the wheels of Local Government.”
FOCUS Online is an expression of our commitment to be part of that change by providing a new forum to highlight the key issues facing Local Government and the opportunity for Councils to network and share their good ideas and initiatives Online.
What’s Online
A selection of articles from each edition of the Newspaper is presented at the link ‘FOCUS Online’.
‘Have Your Say and Share Your Ideas’ is a link to the topics to be featured in the printed editions of FOCUS over the next few months. This is an interactive link. Councils and people outside Local Government are invited to email copy or to comment on material presented. Read what is presented and have your say about it.
‘What’s on in Local Government’ is an opportunity to promote conferences targeting Local Government as well as Council events in particular municipalities.
You can check out the other links Online. Go to www.loc-gov-focus.aus.net and discover FOCUS Online.
The challenge and the opportunity
Obviously access to FOCUS Online is not limited to Councils in Australia. Councils across the world can be part of the dialogue. But perhaps of more significance is the fact that anyone with Internet access can also join in.
It is a challenge, because whatever is presented at this FOCUS Site can be challenged, questioned or perhaps applauded and copied.
It is an opportunity, because the ideas and initiatives of Councils across Australia are presented on the world stage.
