Following extensive consultation, the Western Australian Municipal Association (WAMA), has developed a strategy for implementing the National Competition Policy in Councils across the State. Working with consultants, the Strategy was developed following visits to individual Councils to gather case studies using Local Government data.
The Consultants worked with a WAMA Reference Group comprising 30 representatives from various Councils. Discussions with relevant State and Commonwealth Departments were also an important part of the process for formulating the Strategy. This culminated with WAMA’s release of ‘Competing Councils’ National Competition Implementation Guidelines in September last year.
The Guidelines provide background and an overview of NCP as it applies to WA and practical methodologies and tools for the implementation of its principles by Councils, including competitive neutrality, measures of public benefit and annual reporting requirements. Where to seek additional information and related reforms, such as competitive tendering and performance measurement, are also covered.
The second phase of the Strategy, developing and delivering training at various locations around the State, is currently taking place. Copies of these Guidelines are available to Councils anywhere in Australia for $80 and $120 for other organisations.
For further information contact John Martin at WAMA, telephone (09) 321 5055.
