LGA and council delegates champion community priorities in Canberra
Held at the National Convention Centre, the event provided an opportunity to put community priorities on the national stage with delegates able to engage with federal ministers and members of parliament on key issues.
LGA South Australia President Mayor Dean Johnson said engagement with Canberra had a specific focus on building opportunities to support South Australian councils and communities.
“Cost of living pressures, housing affordability, challenges in road infrastructure costs, financial sustainability, workforce shortages, and natural disasters are all huge issues across the nation,” Mayor Johnson said.
“National events like this are about findings ways we can work together to make South Australian communities the best they can be,” Mayor Johnson said.
“Building stronger ties with Canberra is important to help secure ongoing project funding for our state for better roads, community infrastructure and critical services.
“Federal programs and united grants to local government are essential to the livelihood of our communities – particularly when local council services have never been so valued.
“We know that when federal money is directed to councils, this is injected straight into community projects, local infrastructure and services – with less bureaucracy, greater efficiency and more action.
“Research shows almost 80% of South Australians support local leadership for decisions that affect local areas.
“We need respite to put downward pressure on rates and maintain investment in infrastructure and essential services.”
“Putting the sector’s voice directly to decision-makers in Canberra through forums like the ACLG and National General Assembly are about supporting the efforts of local governments to build strong communities and regions.”
During the NGA, nine councils put forward 11 motions on the national agenda. The topics covered:
- Infrastructure costs, particularly our road networks
- Funding for jetties
- Urgent calls to address the housing crisis
- Better access to rooftop solar for renters and landlords
- Fixing Youth Allowance eligibility for regional students
- Equalising immunisations payments
- Domestic and Family Violence prevention funding
- Standards for climate disclosure assessment and reporting
- Sustainable alternative water sources
- Safe battery disposal and regulatory harmonisation
- Strong democracy in local government
As part of the program of activities, LGA hosted a South Australia networking event at Parliament House with Federal MPs, allowing delegates from across the state to connect with Cabinet Ministers and members of parliament to discuss key issues for their area.
Council delegates also used their time during the week to connect with politicians from both sides of parliament to advocate on a range of topics like water, climate change, infrastructure and economic growth.
Mayor Johnson highlighted the significance of local government involvement during the week.
“A strong attendance of South Australian delegates in Canberra presents a united front and shows the important role local governments play as a trusted delivery partner,” Mayor Johnson said.
“Councils have the best local knowledge about what’s needed to make a difference in their neighbourhoods and towns.”
The National General Meeting of Local Government was held in Canberra 2-4 July 2024.