The Northern Territory Government proportionally provides more money directly to Local Government than any of the other States. In matching the Commonwealth Government’s $21 million per annum, it places a huge investment in Local Government to deliver to local communities.
To ensure people are equipped to gain the most from the reform process, the Department of Community Development, Sport and Cultural Affairs has established a capacity building program.
To maximise opportunities, people must to be empowered to drive the reform process. Department staff are providing community development skills to enable local leaders to manage the change process and work with people in their communities to build a more prosperous future. This program also includes a youth leadership component.
“The Local Government Association is already doing this with its members and we want to develop it further,” said David Coles, Executive Director Local Government and Regional Development. “Like most small towns anywhere in Australia, there is usually only a small leadership group, and this same group is often on a range of boards driving a variety of agendas, including health, educational and essential services. In the Territory, this same group of people have enormous pressures placed on them by their local community and the Government.”
This program aims to build a larger base of competent leaders, particularly young leaders who will shape the future.
