Over the past weeks, the Victorian Local Goverance Association (VLGA) in concert with many mayors, councillors, CEOs and councils officers have been dissecting and debating the proposals put forward in the Local Government Act Review directions paper.
VLGA president, Councillor Sebastian Klein said, “I want to thank all those who attended our information session with Local Government Victoria and our members’ briefing sessions. Your views and input are vital in guiding our response to the proposals put forward.”
Last week at the Association’s Leading Agenda forum, Terry Moran shared his experience as one of the country’s most powerful civil servants. In a room full of councillors, officers and local government representatives, he said that if the sector is smart in working towards positive policy outcomes that it can, and should, be setting the agenda and remit for the Local Government sector – even within a rate-capping scenario, reports Cr Klein.
In this regard, the review is an opportunity to shape the debate; to work collectively towards an Act which serves the purpose of both the local government sector and the community it represents and supports.
Cr Klein said that as with rate capping and the variation process, the VLGA is committed to working with councils and communities to achieve the best outcome, trying to bring the state government to a collaborative rather than paternal approach.
The VLGA looks forward to representing its members’ views on things like direct-election of mayors, community engagement and council planning in the coming weeks.
Cr Klein encourages councils to take advantage of the opportunities to have their say through member activities, information sessions and council briefings.
“Input is vital to ensure that we achieve a worthwhile and lasting outcome for a new Local Government Act for Victoria.”
For a direct briefing on the Act contact the VLGA direct.
