I’m looking forward to next week’s National General Assembly, and with close to 1,000 mayors and councillors set to attend, it’s going to be our biggest NGA in almost a decade.
From Sunday through to Wednesday, we will explore the partnerships we have – and the partnerships we need – to deliver real progress in our communities.
With a new Government in place and a renewed focus on local government, the time is right for building stronger partnerships that will benefit every community.
Our new Government has recognised our pivotal role in meeting important national objectives by elevating the local government portfolio to Cabinet.
Australia’s councils are committed to facilitating more affordable housing, reducing local emissions, building healthier communities, and reducing cost-of-living pressures for families.
However, to deliver on these commitments, we need sustainable and reliable funding streams, and this means an increase in Financial Assistance Grants.
While the Government has committed to “fair increases” to FA Grants, ALGA’s priority is seeing these grants restored to at least one percent of Commonwealth taxation revenue.
It’s critically important October’s Federal Budget contains a funding increase for local government, and ALGA will be advocating strongly to make sure this happens.
On a final note, congratulations to the current and former local government alumni named earlier this week in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list. It is fantastic to see good people recognised for their great – and selfless – contributions to our communities.
Linda Scott,
ALGA President