In officially opening this year’s National General Assembly of Local Government, the Governor General, Peter Hollingworth, emphasised the importance of Local Government in promoting citizenship and the Federation cause.
“We should reflect on and recognise the role of Councils in promoting the Federation cause,” said the Governor General.“Diverse communities served to drive Federation.”
The Governor General also recognised Local Government as the important third sphere in the Australian political landscape.
With the theme for the National General Assembly being ‘Community Renewal – Citizens in Action’, the Governor General commented that this was a timely theme, where an area’s enthusiasm in promoting community renewal will determine the future of Australia. Emphasising Local Government’s key role in promoting citizenship, he said that it is important to provide incentives for newcomers to become Australian citizens.
National identity, civic pride and continual engagement regarding civic issues were other issues that the Governor General touched on. He added there is a need to support voluntary organisations that play a role in coordinating community endeavours.
