2.2 State and Federal Government Investment
Local government acknowledges that ensuring sustainable economic development is a shared responsibility of all tiers of government. Councils shall contribute equitably to identifying and implementing solutions to impacts on economic growth, while highlighting the significant responsibilities of federal and state government.
Local government acknowledges its role in influencing macro-economic policy through mutually advantageous inter-governmental and business relationships. Councils and the LGA shall continue to influence federal/ state government activities in identifying and implementing programs that promote local aims and produce positive local outcomes.
Local government relies on federal/ state government funding to implement a range of economic development activities, and shall continue to lobby for increased collaboration and funding, accompanied by program/ funding agreements which specify objectives and funding schedules and are irrespective of election cycles.
Local government acknowledges that education is a major contributing factor of skills shortages and recognises the wider scope federal/ state governments have to influence education/ training. Councils and the LGA shall continue to lobby governments for increases in funding where deficits exist, while also considering future skills requirements.
Local government recognises the significant responsibilities of federal/ state government to invest in infrastructure that supports economic development and that current investment levels are not adequate. Councils and the LGA will continue to lobby governments for an increase in funding to meet local economic objectives.
Local government recognises the importance of tourism to local, regional and state economies, and the responsibilities of federal/ state government in identifying opportunities for tourism maintenance, creation and promotion across the State. Councils should continue to equitably contribute to activities relating to opportunities for tourism creation and retention.
Local government acknowledges that regulatory processes are in place to protect the public interest, but recognises that they can be a barrier to economic development and a source of friction. Local government will continue to work with federal/ state government to simplify decision-making, planning and administration policies and practices.
Local government recognises the important influence that population policy and migration has had on Australia’s economy, and that creating the right circumstances for skilled migration is imperative. Councils (though the LGA and ALGA) shall continue to lobby federal government to make changes in immigration policy for the benefit of local economies.
Local government recognises that a number of traditional industries are no longer viable in the modern economy, and this has severe socioeconomic impacts on communities. Councils should continue to work with federal and state governments to identify means of diversifying the industrial sector and re-skilling local workforces.