Minister Albanese wasted no time in turning his address to the ‘issue of the moment’ – constitutional recognition.
The Minister said it was rare to deal with an issue that enjoyed such bipartisan support – only two of the House of Representatives’ 150 members voted against a change to recognise Local Government in the Australian Constitution.
“For at least four decades, Federal Governments of all political persuasions have worked directly in partnership with our 565 local councils.”
Minister Albanese pointed to the Roads to Recovery Program ($1.75 billion in the last five years), the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program, and the Regional Development Australia Fund, the first three rounds of which “have invested $380 million in important community infrastructure – new town halls, sporting and community centres, cycle paths, airport upgrades, revitalising main streets…and much more.”
Minister Albanese compared the role of Local Government today, with services such as aged-care and disability services, business and employment programs and child care all funded with Federal Government assistance, to their role at Federation in 1901.
“Your job was to do little more than clear the garbage and make sure the dirt roads were well-graded for the horse and cart.
“We live today in an entirely different age and it is time that this is recognised in our Constitution.”
The Minister acknowledged the ‘giant battle’ ahead if the referendum is to succeed, given that only eight of the forty-four referenda in Australia’s history have been passed.
“Getting people excited about constitutional change is never going to be easy. And when people aren’t sure about something, history tells us they tend to vote ‘No’.
“You engage more closely with local residents than any other level of government. Over the next three months you must use all of these communication opportunities to get the message across that this is a long overdue change.”
Minister Albanese concluded by emphasising that the Federal Government had no hidden agenda, and that the relationship between Local and State Governments would not change.
“We are not seeking to take over bin collections in Burnie, Broome and Bundaberg as one commentator alleged.
“It is simply granting certainty so that all of you can continue to provide the services and facilities that keep your communities strong and connected.”
