10 December 2020

This week, I’m looking forward to representing you at the National Federation Reform Council, meeting with the Prime Minister, Premiers, Chief Ministers and federal and state treasurers to chart a course for 2021.

It’s a great opportunity to showcase local government’s leadership during uncertain times. I will also make the case for economic stimulus and a fairer funding model that would enable local government to drive a locally-led recovery to safeguard jobs and sustain our communities.

Fairer Funding for Local Government
The tough economic road ahead demands a true partnership between Federal, State and local governments - particularly if we are to adequately address national challenges including COVID-19 vaccine rollouts, safe public spaces, and support for marginalised members of our communities. A local government seat at the National Cabinet table is required.

LGNSW and ALGA continue to advocate for a fairer, financially sustainable way to fund the community infrastructure and services our communities need and deserve. That’s why I will repeat the call for an increase in Financial Assistance Grants (FA Grants) to 1% of total Commonwealth taxation revenue, and for ALGA to sit on the National Cabinet. If your Council hasn’t considered our Mayoral Minute calling for councils to be on the national cabinet, please table it today – you can see the campaign details here.

The LGNSW Board will also be meeting tomorrow (Friday 11 December) to consider the remaining Annual Conference motions that weren’t debated due to time limitations. Thank you for those of you who moved and tabled motions. We look forward to implementing the policy and advocacy agenda you have set for us. Once LGNSW Conference decisions have been ratified, you will be able to see our updated policies here in coming days.

Advocacy update

•  WIN! NSW Productivity Commission echoed LGNSW calls for the outdated rate peg to be scrapped. Cutting to the heart of the growing and cumulative financial crisis facing councils, the Commission’s review of infrastructure contributions found rate pegging was “a disincentive to development and growth”. LGNSW, NSW TCorp, the Planning Institute of Australia, the Committee for Sydney, the Sydney Business Chamber and the Western Sydney Business Chamber agree! Refer to LGNSW media release. For further information, email Chief Economist Shaun McBride.

• ALERT: Australia’s Foreign Relations (State and Territory Arrangements) Bill 2020 passed. This new legislation allows the Minister for Foreign Affairs to assess whether arrangements between state, territory and local governments and foreign entities are consistent with Australia’s foreign policy and do not adversely affect foreign relations. Sister city relationships will be subject to this assessment. LGNSW will be working with ALGA and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to ensure councils are consulted on the new arrangements. More information will be provided as it becomes available. In the meantime, please email Executive Manager of Advocacy, Kelly Kwan.

• WIN! The Recycling and Waste Reduction Act 2020 passed. This national waste legislation facilitates Australia’s export bans, prioritises product stewardship and supports a shift towards a circular economy, which is great news. However, NSW communities and councils are still waiting on the NSW government’s long-promised 20-year state waste strategy and the NSW Plastics Plan. We continue to argue the case to #SaveOurRecycling through reinvestment of the annual $750 million Waste Levy. For further information, email Environment Strategy Manager Susy Cenedese.

Opportunity
LGNSW is seeking applications from mayors and councillors to represent local government on the NSW Government’s Asbestos Coordination Committee. The LGNSW representative must have a strong understanding of conference endorsed LGNSW policy relating to asbestos and the asbestos issues facing metropolitan and rural and regional councils. Please email Asbestos Policy Project Manager Daniel Adler for further information or call 02 9242 4128.

BACK TO MAIN PAGE