The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) is set to host its 19th National General Assembly (NGA) of local government, offering a significant opportunity for local government representatives and elected officials to discuss issues facing councils and develop agreed national positions to inform the development of ALGA’s policies for the coming year.
Through the NGA, to be held from 16th—19th June in the nation’s capital, local government representatives can engage directly with key federal politicians, move and debate motions, hear from a range of subject matter experts, and network with local government colleagues from around Australia.
With this being an election year, the June NGA is themed ‘Foundations for the Future -Twenty 13’, and ALGA intends to use the event to officially launch an election document to be presented to all political parties.
This year’s election will determine the Australian Government of the next three years, and set the nation’s direction for the future.
The lead up to the federal election is an opportunity to seek commitments from all federal political parties about the way in which they will work with and support councils in meeting community needs.
The election document will outline local government’s core priorities and propose a list of specific actions that are needed at the federal level to build resilience at the local and regional level in order to prepare communities to meet their current and future challenges. Among those challenges is the need for Commonwealth reform to bolster local government finances.
A financial recognition referendum, potentially held in September 2013, is one the specific objectives of ALGA’s election document.
Constitutional recognition remains a priority for the ALGA Board. Given the pace of developments and an expected announcement of the Government’s intentions in April 2013, ALGA is not seeking council motions on constitutional recognition for this year’s NGA.
A comprehensive update will be given to delegates at the NGA, based on the responses of the Government, the Opposition and state premiers to the Committee’s final report.
This year’s NGA will be held at the National Convention Centre, Canberra from 16th—19th June. To register your attendance and access a program, visit www.alga.asn.au
