At the time of going to press the date for the Federal election had not been set, but if the political punters are correct, by the time this edition reaches Councils it is likely the campaign proper will have commenced. With many feeling that we have been in quasi campaign mode for most of this year, when it is called should bring a sigh of relief!
With the polls indicating that a Labor victory is likely, there seems to be a mood for change at the Federal level. However,
16 seats is a very large hurdle and the Prime Minister is very much a wily campaigner. Given this, it is most likely the campaign will be a long one, with some predicting six weeks. So hang on to your hats – it is certainly not going to be boring.
If the result is close there is every chance that independents in the House of Represesenatives could hold the balance of power. Two of the current independents, Tony Windsor and Bob Katter, are expected to hold their seats.
And given the recent decision by the Howard Government on the Tamar Valley pulp mill, and the Labor Opposition immediately falling in behind them, this election is certainly fertile ground for the Greens and independents.
Some commentators believe the decision on the pulp mill is not solely a Northern Tasmanian issue but could well have consequences in other seats – not the least being the Federal Environment Minister’s marginal Sydney seat, and the Shadow Environment Minister may also feel the heat.
With a possible hung Parliament and the increased potential for independents, the Australian Local Government Association’s
10 point plan (see page 1), and its call for Mayors and Councillors to be lobbying their local Federal candidates for a better deal for Local Government, has never been more timely.
In spite of no formal response from the two major Parties at the time of going to press, ALGA has been pleased with the positive support it has received for the 10 point plan by various MPs and Senators.
In addition, ALGA President Councillor Bell is delighted with the large number of Mayors and Shire Presidents who have already written to and set up meetings with their local MPs and Senators pointing out the importance of financial sustainability for local Councils and the need for a $250 million per annum over four years, Local Community Infrastructure Renewals Fund. Councils around Australia – from every State and Territory, cities, regions and the bush – have already provided over 1,000 examples of infrastructure projects that could be funded under this initiative.
ALGA is rightly urging Councils to keep up this pressure to ensure that whatever shape the next Federal Parliament takes, the sustainability of local communities will be an ongoing priority.
