The long overdue parliamentary inquiry into local government sustainability is good news for the sector, its workers and the communities who rely on this critical level of government according to the two Federal ministers with the Local Government portfolio.
The Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport has accepted the Government’s referral, which comes more than two decades after the last such Parliamentary Inquiry into the sector’s financial capacity.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said it would provide an opportunity for all perspectives on issues including worker security, financial sustainability and cost shifting to be heard.
“I thank the Committee for accepting my referral and starting the important task of working with stakeholders to understand the pressing issues facing local government,” she said.
“Local councils deliver the essential services our communities rely on. That’s why the Australian Government is committed to partnering with local government through programs like Financial Assistance Grants, Roads to Recovery, the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program and the Black Spot Program.”
The Federal Government encourages all interested groups to have their say on these issues by providing a written submission by 3 May 2024.
Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristie McBain said the Committee would also be travelling around Australia to understand the unique issues faced by urban, regional and remote local governments.
“From day one we’ve brought local government back to the table as a trusted delivery partner of the services our communities rely on, which is why it’s important that future funding arrangements and program delivery meet the unique needs of the sector,” the minister said.
“I welcome this inquiry, which will build on the extensive feedback we’ve received from the local government sector over the last 18-months, and help inform how we can strengthen their capacity to deliver better outcomes in our communities.”
