Meeting in Canberra, the Australian Council of Local Government has brought together Mayors and Council leaders to engage with Federal Ministers on the shared vision for this level of Government.
The meeting highlighted the Federal Government’s approach to local grant programs, including two new community infrastructure grant opportunities — Growing Regions and Thriving Suburbs.
Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain said these programs meant every Local Government area across Australia was now eligible for to apply for transparent, merits-based community infrastructure funding.
She said the meeting also reinforced the urgent challenge of housing supply and affordability as a priority for all participants.
“The forum discussed the role of Local Government in driving local solutions to the housing crisis, and its role in the upcoming Planning Ministers Meeting as well as the delivery of the Housing Accord,” Ms McBain said.
“Local Governments should not be an afterthought when it comes to whole-of-Government policies, which is why hearing from so many local leaders is an important step in forging fit-for-purpose programs.”
President of the Australian Local Government Association, Linda Scott said it was wonderful to be at the meeting with so many Mayors, Ministers and other colleagues discussing progress on shared visions, such as net zero emissions by 2050, while opening a dialogue on new ideas.
“I look forward to our ongoing collaboration to support Councils across the country to continue delivering for Australians — from our most northern communities to the very south of Tasmania,” Ms Scott (pictured) said.
