Local governments across the country are working hard for their communities and promoting their achievements, with over 370 entries received for the 2012 National Awards for Local Government.
Local Government Minister Simon Crean announced today that the annual awards had attracted more than double the entries received last year.
“This is a tribute to the local government sector and proof of the growth in community-based initiatives addressing social, economic and environmental priorities of the regions.” he said.
“As Minister for Regional Australia and Local Government, I have travelled across the country and seen first-hand the innovative work of local governments.
“As the tier of government closest to the community, they play a vital role in developing local solutions to local challenges.
“It is important for us as a nation to tap local expertise as we work towards creating more productive, liveable and sustainable communities.”
This year, eight new categories have been added to the annual awards, highlighting growth areas in local government activity.
The new categories are Active Arts, Energy Smart, Excellence in Road Safety, Improving Services to Remote Communities, Innovation in Natural Resource Management, Land-Use Planning, Rural and Remote Health and Strength in Diversity.
“The National Awards are an important plank of our partnership with local government and I am delighted with the enthusiastic response to the new categories.” Mr Crean said.
“I want to thank each council that has entered and I look forward to congratulating the winners.”
Category winners for the National Awards for Local Government will be announced in early April.
The national winners will be judged by an independent panel and announced at the National General Assembly of the Australian Local Government Association in Canberra in June 2012.
For further information and the full list of award categories visit www.regional.gov.au/local/awards
