A forecast of the challenges ahead, forming partnerships and a greater leadership role by Local Government were just some of the issues covered at the LGPro Annual Conference 2002. Held at Melbourne Park on 21 and 22 February, delegates heard the theme ‘Lifting the Horizon’ resonate through various presentations and discussions.
President of LGPro, Noelene Duff, reflected on the challenges that Local Government and Local Government professionals were facing in the year ahead of them. She called for greater leadership and partnership with the other spheres of government, all resulting in good governance.
“Actively demonstrate high standards, this is what community expects of Local Government,” Noelene Duff said. “Share ideas and take stock.”
She pointed to a new sense of maturity in Local Government with the State Government having greater confidence in Local Government.
Noelene Duff commented on the need for Local Governments to improve their own images as called on by the community which is demanding an increase in responsiveness, as well as taking a more proactive approach.
These key messages were also echoed by the Victorian State Minister for Local Government, Bob Cameron.
“Bring change over a sustained period,” he said. “All good change encounters bumps at any level of government. The relationship between State and Local Government continues to strengthen which is important as both do things which affect people considerably.”
In the keynote address, former leader of the National Party, Ian Sinclair said that to lift your horizons you must first know where you are and where you have been.
“Think about the past and present and look to the future,” he said. “Councillors rely on you, as professional officers, for advice. Match this leadership with responsibility.” Referring to the media, he said that this is an important part of the checks and balances within our system.
“I don’t want any curtailing of the power to question and report,” Ian Sinclair said. “But understanding how to handle the press is vital. First get your facts right about what is or what was. If you make a mistake acknowledge this straight away.”
He particularly warned about not saying too much.
As Local Government professionals, Ian Sinclair said it was important to observe and listen as well as talk, particularly to the community.
“It is not just about where you are but where you have been and where you are going,” he said. “Marrying opportunity with professionalism is a major challenge.”
