There is no doubt that the ‘federation’ of State and Territory Local Government Associations that forms the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) will always have a variety of interests to be served. Inevitably, there will be differences in priorities of the ‘smaller’ States as against those of the ‘larger’ States; rural and urban issues; variations in Local Government powers and responsibilities across the country, the list goes on.
From these inherent differences there is also strength. All areas, regions, States and Territories have diverse needs. However, all governments that deliver services, wherever their constituents live, have the same overarching priority &endash; to provide the best possible service by making optimum use of available resources.
To achieve this, it is vital that governments at all levels collaborate through formalised agreements that recognise the importance each sphere plays in the betterment of life for individuals and communities.
Within our ‘Federal’ system of government, State and Commonwealth Governments have from time to time denied Local Government representation or a ‘seat at the table’ at intergovernmental forums.
Around the world, it has long been recognised that issues of environmental management and sustainability are best addressed by actions at the local level. After some years of being left out of the equation, indications are strong that Local Government will finally have full membership status with the Australian and New Zealand Environment Conservation Council (ANZECC).
Recognising the vital role Local Government plays in service delivery has resulted in Local Government being involved in a number of ministerial forums.
Networking at a ministerial level is vital and Local Government must be in this for the long term. At the same time, Federal and State Governments cannot afford to deny local communities this direct link to decision making.
Likewise, Local Government, through its State and Territory Associations, must ensure its peak national body, the Australian Local Government Association, is properly resourced, managed and staffed to interact at the highest level with the Government of the day, bureaucracies, the Opposition and other key Parties, industry, lobby groups, the media and community groups.
Both in terms of economy of scale and to ensure a united voice is heard &endash; a single, proactive, strong lobby arm in Canberra is vital.
Hot on the heels of the very successful campaign that resulted in Council rates, water charges and garbage services being exempt from the GST, the work of the Australian Local Government Association must continue to be supported in every possible way.
As ALGA prepares for the next Federal election, a recently announced $2 million fighting fund to ensure roads are a key election issue is off and running. With fuel prices at record high levels, the windfall to the Commonwealth Government from increased excise must be returned to communities through additional funding for roads.
Working closely with other key stakeholders from industry, trade and community groups, ALGA aims to ensure the message is sent loud and clear to the Party Pollsters that the state of our roads is a major concern to people across the nation.
Through a strong, well resourced and proactive peak national body, the voice of Local Government will only be ignored by the major Parties at their peril.
