The Local Government Association of NSW has asked Premier Bob Carr and new Local Government Minister, Tony Kelly, to discuss the issue of Council amalgamations.
The Association is opposed to forced amalgamations, but wants the State Government to support Councils interested in voluntary mergers.
Association President, Councillor Sara Murray, welcomed Minister Tony Kelly’s comments that there would be no forced amalgamations and that Councils choosing to merge would be offered State Government incentives.
“We want to discuss exactly how the Government intends to encourage boundary changes,” Councillor Murray said.“I can’t state strongly enough that any reforms have to go beyond amalgamations, to include the ongoing issue of problems with the rating system.”
She said many small NSW Councils were facing financial difficulties and the Association had to ensure those communities were properly supported.
“The Association is eager to encourage reform, through voluntary amalgamation or other structural changes, to enhance the viability and relevance of Local Government in NSW,” she said. “We want assurance that any reform of Local Government will include a re-working of financial arrangements.”
The Association is establishing a working party to develop an implementation strategy for amalgamations.
“We must also secure a promise from the State Government that Local Government will be fully informed and involved throughout any structural reforms.”
