In each edition we feature the views of a Local Government Association President. The following is from Mayor Johanna McLuskey, President of the Local Government Association of South Australia.
For those of you who don’t know, I took over the role of President of the Local Government Association of South Australia in October last year, following Mayor Hurn’s second term.
It is an exciting time to lead Local Government in this State as the potential role of Local Government is being redefined and reshaped, through important initiatives, such as the LGA’s Future Directions – Smarter Governments Working Together strategy.
My involvement in Local Government began in the early 1990s after my interest was sparked by a contentious local planning issue. In 1995 I was elected to the Port Adelaide Enfield Council and became Mayor in 1997. I have to say, it has been a privilege to represent my community as a Councillor and Mayor and I have particularly relished the opportunity to become involved at a strategic level.
Some of the roles I have taken on include being a member of the former Minister for Local Government’s Partnership Program forum, the chair of LGA’s ‘Future Directions’ intergovernment reference group and the LGA Metropolitan Local Government Group.
Turning to the election
It certainly has been a tumultuous time in South Australian politics since the State’s 9 February election. At the time of writing this, the expectation is that there will be a change of government in SA, with the State to be governed by a Labor Government, with the support of one or more Independents. The formal process however is yet to occur.
Nevertheless, I have written to all members elected to SA’s 50th Parliament, congratulating them on their election – and relaying LGA’s willingness to work with the Government of the day to ensure best outcomes for our Councils and their communities.
Our future directions
Given the LGA’s commitment to the recently launched Future Directions – Smarter Governments Working Together document, building strong partnerships with counterparts at the State and Federal level is at the top of the agenda. The five year ‘Future Directions’ plan for intergovernment relations was launched in November and was the result of six months consultation within and outside of Local Government.
It grew out of a recognition that communities were tired of gaps, duplication and unnecessary conflicts between governments and the need to deliver better coordinated services.
During the consultation phase, Councils identified some significant gaps in relationships between the spheres of Government and the failure in some sectors to recognise the capability of Councils to assist in implementing their objectives – with adequate funding.
The plan seeks commitment to the relationship from State Government to achieve reforms and stronger cooperation between Councils – and we recognise Councils need to continue to change as well.
In a nutshell, the document calls for formal agreements to clarify structures for resource sharing, joint decision making, legislative and financial reforms, and alignment of strategic planning.
It is a positive document which hails an exciting new era for Local Government in SA and will form the basis of our dialogue with the new SA Government.
