Local Government Victoria has announced a raft of reforms to improve accountability and service delivery across the State’s 79 Councils.
Minister for Local Government, Adem Somyurek said the new Local Government Act 2020 delivered the most significant reforms to the local government sector in more than 30 years.
“The new laws will make Councils more accountable, democratic and help them deliver the services their communities need,” Mr Somyurek said.
“This new Act is the result of extensive consultation with councils, ratepayers, stakeholders and communities to reform how local government works in Victoria,” he said.
“The first phase of the reforms will improve community confidence in their councils by introducing mandatory training for candidates intending to stand at the October local government elections.”
Mr Somyurek said other reforms to be introduced in the first phase included measures to improve community engagement; public transparency; strategic planning; financial management; and service performance.
He said Local Government Victoria would continue to work closely with Councils and the sector to guide the reform and the implementation of the Act.
“The Act will be implemented in four stages, delivering to the five key reform themes,” Mr Somyurek said.
Further information on the reforms, including an implementation timeline can be accessed via this PS News link.
