Proposed changes to disaster management funding, looming White Papers on Federation and Taxation Reform and council proposed amendments to rating categories are expected to be hot topics at the 118th Local Government Association of Queensland’s (LGAQ) annual conference.
More than 600 local government delegates, observers and corporate partners are expected to attend the conference next week.
LGAQ President Margaret de Wit said that the timing of the conference was critical for local government’s long-term agenda in Queensland.
“We’ll be launching our 2015 State Election Local Government Policy Plan at the conference, which identifies the highest priority investment opportunities for the State in the local government sector.
“It’s been an eventful year for local government, which has been reflected in the record number of motions tabled for discussion this year in Mackay.
“The conference theme is ‘Going for Growth’ and this is certainly reflected in the 117 motions which councils will vote on, encompassing everything from planning reforms to dangerous dogs.”
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Deirdre Comerford is excited to roll out the welcome mat to 600 delegates and observers.
“It is a great opportunity to showcase our region and the conference will inject significant dollars into the local economy during the week.
“I trust all delegates will enjoy the hospitality, friendliness and soak up the natural attributes our beautiful city is renowned for.”
Cr de Wit also foreshadowed a major campaign announcement related to local government productivity, which she said had the potential to significantly change the way local councils evaluated their services.
“We’ve got a few exciting announcements up our sleeve this year.”
A full program can be found on the LGAQ website at www.lgaq.asn.au
