The Local Government Association of New South Wales and the Shires Association of New South Wales have voted overwhelmingly in support of forming a new single association to represent Local Government in New South Wales.
On 16 August, over 260 representatives from 123 councils gathered at the One Association Convention in Sydney, chaired by Speaker of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly, Richard Torbay.
“There was a real consensus that the current NSW Associations should join together to form a single, strong and united industry body,” said President of the Local Government Association, Councillor Genia McCaffery.
“I was very impressed with the open and respectful way in which so many different speakers from all our councils addressed the Convention.
“People displayed great courage, tackling all the hard hitting issues surrounding the pros and cons for one association.
“Forming one association requires trust and goodwill from both parties, and the feeling today is that all councils are committed to forming one association, with the strongest voice for councils and our communities.”
President of the Shires Association, Councillor Bruce Miller, said it has long been acknowledged that a united voice is needed in Local Government in New South Wales.
“Today we saw an overwhelming majority support to build a new, prominent association that represents the whole State,” Councillor Miller said.
“There was some terrific debate throughout the day and right from the start general consensus for moving to one association was overwhelming.
“Every council was given the chance to speak, regardless of their location, population or size.”
The conference required a two thirds majority to progress the concept of one association.
Both existing Associations will now take this overwhelming majority vote in favour of forming one association to their upcoming Local Government and Shires Assocations conferences.
