ALGA News archive 2007

21 December 2007

ALGA to play important role in new COAG
ALGA will play an important role in the new Council of Australian Governments (COAG) arrangements which emerged from the first meeting chaired by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, held in Melbourne on 20 December.
Productivity Commission draft report
The draft report on assessing local government revenue raising capacity was issued this week and follows the tasking of the Productivity Commission by the Treasurer in April 2007. The final report is due with the Government in April 2008.
Happy Christmas to all our readers
Amanda Lynch (Editor) and Zaman Khaliq-ul (Advertising and IT Manager) of 'ALGA News' wish our readers and advertisers a very happy Christmas.

14 December 2007

Meeting of the Council of Australian Governments
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell says he is looking forward to taking a seat at the table at the Council of Australian Governments (CoAG) meeting in Melbourne on December 20 to progress the national reform agenda.
Making the media work for you
Those who attended the concurrent session on media management at the National General Assembly of Local Government received some valuable tips on dealing with the media in the post-election political climate.
Climate change - how local government can respond
Climate change and its implications for local government was the topic of a thought-provoking session at the recent National General Assembly of Local Government in Darwin. This is particularly relevant with next week's CoAG meeting discussing the establishment of a national emissions trading scheme.

07 December 2007

Positive response to local government and infrastructure ministry
The President of the Australian Local Government Association, Cr Paul Bell, has welcomed the announcement that local government and infrastructure will be combined in a super-ministry of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government.
Local government's important role in meeting climate change challenge
Local government globally does the 'heavy lifting' in terms of climate change, according to Australian of the Year Professor Tim Flannery.
Councils rewarded for mobile phone recycling efforts
Brisbane City Council, Lake Macquarie Council and Campbelltown City Council have been announced as the top councils in encouraging and boosting mobile phone recycling at the inaugural MobileMuster Local Government Awards.

30 November 2007

ALGA President plots path ahead for constitutional recognition
The National General Assembly of Local Government finished yesterday with ALGA President Cr Paul Bell announcing that constitutional recognition would be the dominant issue for local government in 2008 culminating in a Constitutional Forum.
'Extraordinary opportunity' for constitutional reform
Eminent constitutional lawyer Professor Cheryl Saunders emphasized the extraordinary opportunity for local government to move towards its long-cherished goal of constitutional recognition.
Welcome to the 21st Century - Richard Neville conjures up the future
Futurist Richard Neville added spice to the line-up at the National General Assembly of Local Government by crystal-ball gazing into Australia’s social, political and cultural landscape.

23 November 2007

National General Assembly...only three sleeps away!
The National General Assembly of Local Government will kick off on Monday in Darwin with the Regional Co-operation and Development Forum and the launch of the State of the Regions Report 2007-08.
Roads - the election story for local government
The 2007 election campaign has resulted in large numbers of commitments by both the major parties to specific road projects around the country. The major projects are listed on the ALGA election website.
Water announcements in final week of campaign
Labor water spokesman Anthony Albanese has announced Labor would support the Coalition's $10 billion National Water Plan for water security, encourage the states to sign up and fast-track $400 million for irrigation upgrades and water buybacks.

16 November 2007

Labor's broadband announcement
At Labor's campaign launch on Wednesday, Labor Leader Kevin Rudd announced that in partnership with the private sector, a Rudd Government would build a state of the art, fibre optic to the node, national broadband network.
PM launches Coalition housing policy
The Prime Minister, John Howard, at the Coalition's policy launch this week, announced a plan to strengthen opportunities for Australians to continue to achieve home ownership. Of particular interest to local government was the commitment to dispose of surplus Commonwealth lands for residential and ancillary purposes.
Labor commits to a taskforce to examine the needs of grain lines
Labor has made an election commitment of $3 million for a taskforce of growers, handlers, the National Framers Federation, the Australian Rail Track Corporation and the State Governments to come up with solutions to address the neglect of grain lines in NSW and WA. Labor says it will also invest in the solutions developed by the Taskforce as part of the AusLink 2 national transport funding package from 2009 to 2014.

09 November 2007

ALGA President calls on major parties to commit to infrastructure fund
The Australian Local Government has today called on both major parties to commit to a Local Community Infrastructure Renewals Fund in a broadcast by President Bell on the ALGA election website.
Turnbull vs Garrett - Climate Change Debate
Climate change dominated the debate yesterday between Environment Minister Malcolm Turnbull and his Labor Shadow Peter Garrett who dubbed it "the greatest challenge we face."
Councils rewarded for boosting mobile phone recycling
Local councils that have excelled in supporting MobileMuster, the official recycling program of the mobile phone industry, will be honoured at this month’s National General Assembly in Darwin.

02 November 2007

Coalition commits additional $550 million for local roads
In the first announcement directly related to local government during this election campaign, the Coalition has announced its 2020 Plan for Local Roads.
Health debate at National Press Club
The health debate held at the National Press Club this week made headlines for a number of reasons, however there were some omissions from the debate that will hopefully be addressed by announcements in coming weeks of the election campaign.
Melton Shire Council winner of the inaugural Sustainable Cities Awards
With climate change and water conservation at the forefront of social and political agendas, Melton Shire Council is proof positive that local government is leading the way in creating a more sustainable society.

26 October 2007

The Great Debate - Howard vs Rudd
The Howard vs Rudd debate at Parliament House on Sunday night had few surprises for local government, with a broadbrush canvassing of policies already in the public arena.
Motions for Debate - Shaping the National Agenda
This year's National General Assembly is shaping up to be one of the most important events this year. On the back of a federal election, the Assembly will be pivotal in shaping the political agenda for local government.
Women's Debate at the National Press Club
Women's issues were headlined in an election debate on Wednesday at the National Press Club of Australia. Dr Sharman Stone, Minister for Workforce Participation and Tanya Plibersek, Shadow Minister for Human Services, Housing; Youth & Women outlined their parties' policies on key issues that affect all women.

19 October 2007

Federal election campaign - ALGA articulates its agenda online
The first week of the 2007 election campaign provided an opportunity for the major players to frame the agenda.
Road funding announcements
The first week of the formal election campaign has seen a continuation of the plethora of road funding announcements of recent weeks.
Brown outlines Green election policies, including support for 'worm'
Greens Leader Senator Bob Brown addressed the National Press Club on Wednesday, He said the Greens would campaign on raising aged pensions, and on the major issues of climate change and water security.

12 October 2007

Promises for local government on water and sewerage infrastructure
Both major parties are committing millions of dollars in pre-election spending in an attempt to address the demands of the water shortage crisis, brought on by drought and what some experts believe are the effects of climate change. Some of the money is being spent on local government water and sewerage infrastructure which is ageing and needs replacing.
Ferguson outlines Labor's transport agenda
Martin Ferguson, the Shadow Minister for Transport. Roads and Tourism, speaking at the Australian Road Forum and Victorian Civil Construction Industry Alliance in Melbourne provided further insight into Labor's land transport policies.
Council promotes responsible pet ownership
Holroyd City Council's Petfest is about promoting responsible pet ownership, raising awareness of the council's low-kill policy for companion animals and raising funds to help rehome abandoned pets. The PetFest MC was the well-known Steve Austin from Harry's Practice.

05 October 2007

Councils called on to step up lobbying campaign for federal election
ALGA's election document - 'A 10-Point Plan to Reinvigorate Local Communities' - has received positive recognition in the media and through letters coming through from local MPs and Senators.
Funding to help local government respond to climate change
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell has welcomed the announcement this week by the Federal Government of $2 million in funding to help local governments respond to the impacts of climate change along with the release of a new report, Climate Change Adaptation Actions for Local Government.
National General Assembly - Early bird registration closes 10 October!
Make sure you don't miss out on the early bird discount for registrations received on or before Wednesday 10 October 2007. An early bird registration saves you $220 off the full registration fee.

28 September 2007

Democrats embrace 10-Point Plan - major parties yet to formally respond
ALGA's election document - "A 10-Point Plan to Reinvigorate Local Communities" - has received enthusiastic support from the Democrats, with both major parties yet to formally respond.
Crean outlines Labor's vision for regional governance
The Federal Shadow Minister for Trade and Regional Development, Simon Crean, has outlined in a recent speech a possible model for regional governance.
Federal Government drought assistance welcomed by shires
The NSW Shires Association has welcomed debt write offs and direct assistance to help farmers, businesses and families through the worst drought in living memory.

21 September 2007

See you at the National General Assembly - Darwin, November 26-29 !
This year's theme is A Climate for Change. It's a theme to help us address a range of important and topical issues facing local government and to build on ALGA's 3F campaign-Fair Funding; Fair Treatment and Formal Recognition. Under the banner A Climate for Change we will explore a broad range of issues impacting on local government under three broad headings:
How do I market local government?
Are you frustrated with a media focused on personalities rather than issues, on council 'mistakes' rather than successes?
Headline Acts at National General Assembly
Prominent constitutional lawyer and academic Professor Cheryl Saunders, Australian of the Year Tim Flannery, former NZ Minister for Finance Sir Roger Douglas, futurist Richard Neville, and former senior policy adviser to Tony Blair and climate change consultant Nick Rowley.

14 September 2007

ALGA President seeks government support for election bids
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell met with Local Government Minster Jim Lloyd this week to seek support for ALGA's election bids, contained in ALGA's 10 Point Plan election document.
ALGA President seeks support for election bids from shadow ministers
Cr Paul Bell sought support for ALGA's election document A 10 Point Plan to Reinvigorate Local Communities from Senator Kate Lundy, Federal Opposition Spokesperson for Local Government, during a meeting in Canberra this week.
Federal Government announces new regional program
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile has announced that the Government will establish a new Growing Regions Program that will provide $200 million over 4 years for projects that address the impacts of growth.

07 September 2007

ALGA launches federal election document
The President of the Australian Local Government Association, Cr Paul Bell, has launched 'A 10-Point Plan to Reinvigorate Local Communities' and called on both major parties to commit to a $1 billion renewals fund.
ALGA supports local government democracy
ALGA supported local residents having a say through plebiscites on councils amalgamations before a Senate Committee Hearing in Cairns on Monday.
Peter Garrett addresses National Press Club
Labor's spokesman for Climate Change, Environment, Heritage and the Arts, Peter Garrett, outlined Labor's environmental agenda at the National Press Club on Wednesday.

31 August 2007

Labor confirms timeframe for constitutional recognition
The President of the Australian Local Government Association, Cr Paul Bell, said that he was pleased that Federal Labor had outlined a timeframe on constitutional recognition for local government.
Minister willing to talk about constitutional recognition
The Minister for Local Government, Jim Lloyd, has flagged his willingess to look seriously at constitutional recognition for local government.
National General Assembly - Darwin 26-29 November 2007
Join us in Darwin and help us shape the future for local government.

24 August 2007

Local Government welcomes PM's infrastructure announcement
The President of the Australian Local Government Association, Cr Paul Bell, has welcomed the new proposal by the Prime Minister, John Howard, for a multi-billion-dollar "social and economic" infrastructure investment fund.
President meets with Minister Lloyd
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell met with the Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads, Jim Lloyd, last week. Cr Bell and Minister Lloyd, who recently celebrated his third year as Local Government Minister, discussed progress in terms of the '3Fs' campaign - Fair Funding, Fair Treatment and Formal Recognition.
drumMUSTER Milestone
This week the Governor-General, Major-General Michael Jeffery made a special presentation to Mr John Powell, a canegrower from Mackay, who delivered the 10 millionth drum in drumMUSTER's eight year history. The presentation took place at the AgQuip Field Day in Gunnedah, New South Wales.

17 August 2007

Australian Government to override Qld Government on plebiscites
Prime Minister John Howard yesterday introduced legislation into Federal Parliament that would override Queensland laws giving the state government power to sack councils who hold referendums on the amalgamation issue.
Freight report tabled in Federal Parliament
The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Transport and Regional Services report: "The Great Freight Task - is Australia's transport network up to the challenge?" was tabled in Federal Parliament on Monday. The Committee's focus was on the adequacy of Australia's transport infrastructure to meet the growing freight transport task.
ALGA President meets with Assistant Treasurer
Cr Bell met with the Assistant Treasurer Peter Dutton at Parliament House on Tuesday. Cr Bell and Minister Dutton discussed the issue of tax deductibility for councillor expenses. ALGA is seeking a review of the legislation and an amendment to remove the $1000 limit applicable to tax deductibility for election expenses for local government candidates.

10 August 2007

Labor confirms commitment to roads funding
Concerns were expressed in the ALGA News of 3 August at the possible impact on direct funding to local government of recommendations contained in a discussion paper from the ALP Advisory Group on Federal State Reform on the future development of Specific Purpose Payments (SPPs).
Unbowed, unbroken and united - the courage of Queensland councils
At 4.05am after a marathon overnight debate lasting close to 14 hours the Beattie Government passed the Local Government Reform Implementation Bill 2007.
Remote Aerodrome Safety Program
The Federal Government has released the guidelines and called for applications for the Remote Aerodrome Safety Program. This is a $22 million four year Program announced in the May Budget.

03 August 2007

ALGA calls on Labor to confirm commitment to roads funding
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell has expressed concern at the possible impact on direct funding to local government of recommendations contained in a discussion paper from the ALP Advisory Group on Federal State Reform on the future development of Specific Purpose Payments (SPPs).
Community Infrastructure Register heads towards the 1000 mark!
With almost 860 entries on the Community Infrastructure Ideas Register, ALGA President Cr Paul Bell has called on councils to top the 1000 mark.
New $7m Development Assessment System
The Minister for Small Business and Tourism, Fran Bailey, has officially launched the first stage of the National electronic Development Assessment (NeDA) initiative which will save time and money for business and the general public through the standardisation of online processes for development applications.

30 July 2007

Australian Government condemns forced local government amalgamations
The Australian Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads, Jim Lloyd, today condemned the manner and process in which Queensland Premier Peter Beattie and his Local Government Minister Andrew Fraser are imposing dictator-like forced Local Government amalgamations.
ALGA President addresses Affordable Housing Summit
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell attended and addressed the Summit on Affordable Housing convened in Canberra on Thursday 26 July by Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd.
Important role for local government in housing
The Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile, has indicated there are no plans to increase the first home owner’s grant but that the Federal Government was looking at a range of proposals to tackle affordability, including working more closely with local government.

20 July 2007

Senator Boswell attacks plan to amalgamate indigenous councils
Nationals Senator Ron Boswell has hit out at the Beattie Government's planned amalgamation of indigenous councils in Queensland's far-north, saying it is a recipe for disaster.
ALGA calls for continuation of Emergency Management Grants
ALGA Board Member Cr Bob Abbot has urged the Australian Government to continue funding local government's emergency management efforts through the Working Together to Manage Emergencies initiative. Cr Abbot was responding to the announcement of successful grant recipients by the Federal Attorney General, Philip Ruddock. Mr Ruddock announced details of 423 projects to receive more than $13.8 million under the program in 2007-08. The announcement brings the total number of projects funded under the program to more than 1200.
Flannery keynote speaker at NGA
The 2007 Australian of the Year, Tim Flannery, will be one of the keynote speakers at the National General Assembly to be held in Darwin from 26-29 November.

13 July 2007

2007 Local Roads and Transport Congress
The President of the Australian Local Government Association, Cr Paul Bell, has urged all political parties in the lead-up to the Federal election to commit to a road and transport agenda to address problems of greenhouse gas emissions, urban congestion, freight management and pollution in our cities, as well as meeting the access and transport needs of regional and rural communities.
Vaile and Lloyd address Congress
The Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile, urged councils to be vigilant about their auditing and accountability practices to guarantee continued support in Cabinet for the Roads to Recovery and Blackspot programs.
Labor commits to matching Government funding on Roads to Recovery and Blackspot Programs
The Shadow Minister for Transport, Roads and Tourism, Martin Ferguson, has committed Labor to match the Coalition's Roads to Recovery and Blackspot funding in terms of dollars and duration of programs. In the recent Budget, the Howard Government has extended Roads to Recovery and Blackspot Programs until 2014 and increased the funding for both programs.

06 July 2007

Councils demonstrate need for community infrastructure
Local government has responded overwhelmingly to the Community Infrastructure Ideas Register.
Minister Coonan hits back at WiMAX critics
In a recent speech to the National Press Club, the Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan, responded to criticism of the WIMAX component of the Government's 'Australia Connected' broadband package which promises that 99% of the population will have high-speed broadband by 2009.
Housing Ministers recognise important role of local government
Housing Ministers from all States and Territories, (with the exception of NSW), and ALGA met in Darwin this week to continue the ongoing discussion on how best to address indigenous and affordable housing challenges facing the nation.

29 June 2007

Cr Bell meets with UK councils
The President of the Queensland Local Government Association and President of ALGA, Cr Paul Bell, met recently with the President of the Local Government Association of the UK, Lord Sandy Bruce-Lockhart, at the Houses of Parliament in London. Cr Bell also met with individual councils in the UK to discuss their experiences of shared services and internal reforms.
Community engagement key to Government's child protection plan
The Federal Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Mal Brough, has outlined operations over the next days and weeks as part of the Howard Government's NT reform package to protect children.
Rainwater tank rebates under Labor plan
Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd and Shadow Minister for Infrastructure Anthony Albanese have announced that, if elected, Labor would help 500,000 households across Australia install rainwater tanks or grey water pipes to help combat Australia's urban water shortages through a National RainWater/GreyWaterPlan.

22 June 2007

Councils highlight community infrastructure needs
More than 70 councils around Australia have responded to ALGA's request to identify failing community infrastructure. The close to 400 proposals already submitted by councils to the Community Infrastructure Ideas Register reinforce the view that much of the community's infrastructure is in need of renewal.
Government announces broadband plans
ALGA welcomes the Government's recent broadband announcement. This has been a major theme of the State of the Regions Reports over the past few years. Both political parties now have proposals on the table that appear to recognise the critical importance of broadband for the economic and social welfare of the nation.
Local Government and Climate Change
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell AM has written to the Prime Minister outlining local government's interest in working in partnership on climate change following the announcement of funding of $126 million over 5 years for an Australian Centre for Climate Change Adaptation and a further $103 million over 4 years for the CSIRO Climate Adaptation and Energy Research Flagship.

15 June 2007

Local Roads and Transport Congress
The ALGA Local Roads and Transport Congress in Newcastle on 8-10 July is now only three weeks away. There is still time to register to attend the most important local government transport event of the year.
ALGA presents its case to Labor's Federal-State Advisory Group
The Shadow Minister for Federal-State Relations, Bob McMullan, addressed an Australian Institute of Management breakfast briefing last week.
Honours for local government
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell AM congratulated the Chief Executive Officer of the WA Local Government Association, Ricky Burges, who received the Public Service Medal (PSM) in the 2007 Queen's Birthday Honours lists.

08 June 2007

Meeting with Minister for Vocational and Further Education
The President of the Australian Local Government Association, Cr Paul Bell, met with the Minister for Vocational and Further Education, Andrew Robb, at Parliament House recently.
Local Roads and Transport Congress - only 4 weeks to go
The ALGA Local Roads and Transport Congress in Newcastle on 8-10 July is now only four weeks away. Register now to avoid missing out.
Community infrastructure fails Australian communities
Proposals submitted by councils to the Community Infrastructure Ideas Register reveal in graphic detail the state of local government infrastructure around Australia. With over 300 entries representing 60 councils from each state of Australia so far, local government is coming out in force to show that there is a grass-roots demand for the urgent renewal of community infrastructure.

01 June 2007

ALGA President meets Minister for Ageing
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell met with the new Minister for Ageing, Christopher Pyne, last week to welcome the Minister to the portfolio and also raise a number of issues of relevance to local government in respect to ageing communities.
ALGA President meets Shadow Treasurer
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell discussed federal/state financial transfers with the Shadow Treasurer, Wayne Swan, last week. Cr Bell said that ALGA was preparing a submission to Labor's Advisory Group on Federal/State Relations in relation to Specific Purpose Payments to local government through the states.
ALGA prepares for federal election
ALGA is producing an election policy document which will outline local government's priorities in the lead-up to the federal poll. The major parties will be asked to comment on how they intend to respond to the key issues for local government in 2007 and we will highlight these responses in 'ALGA News' and ensure we keep State and Territory Associations and councils informed about initiatives as they are announced.

25 May 2007

Local government roundtable with Minister Lloyd
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell and the State and Territory Presidents and CEOs met with the Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads, Jim Lloyd, at Parliament House yesterday.
Labor canvasses constitutional reform
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell met with the Shadow Minister for Federal/State Relations Bob McMullan on Wednesday to discuss local government input into the formation of an Advisory Group to provide recommendations on reforming Australian federalism.
Maroochy Shire Council and DPI&F work together to support local economy
Maroochy Shire Council is leading the way in working with peri-urban landholders to improve production, economic viability and increase knowledge and awareness about how to better protect the environment.

18 May 2007

Strategic Regional Program – councils must move quickly to take up offers
As reported in 'ALGA News' immediately after the Budget, the Government has decided to provide $250 million in the current financial year for the AusLink Strategic Regional Program. The funding is being offered to councils that had submitted projects under this program but were not successful in receiving funding in the initial round.
Swansea is Australia's tidiest town
The Tasmanian coastal town of Swansea has won the title of Australia's Tidiest Town for 2007.
Shadow Treasurer Wayne Swan addresses National Press Club
In his Budget Reply Address to the National Press Club on Wednesday, Shadow Treasurer Wayne Swan said that Labor would be 'fiscally conservative' in government and would expand the productive capacities of the nation through a major boost to investment in education and learning.

11 May 2007

R2R funding until 2014, green light for Strategic Regional Program
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell has described the 2007-08 Budget as "an excellent outcome for local government."
Budget Overview
Financial Assistance Grants (FAGs) to local government will increase in 2007-08 to $ 1,749 million (consisting of $1,211.7 million General Purpose Grants and $537.7 million in local roads grants). This is estimated to be $65.2 million above the current financial year, and a nominal increase of 3.9%.
Labor's Budget Response
"This Budget presented the Treasurer an ideal opportunity for the Howard Government to support local communities where they need it most through a Local Community Infrastructure Renewal Fund - but he missed it," - The Shadow Minister for Local Government, Senator Kate Lundy

04 May 2007

Emergency management for local government
Local government has an important role in emergency management. Emergency management pages have been updated and are now on-line which contain information on national policies and programs, resources, a tool-kit and information strategy as well as the results of several significant ALGA initiatives in relation to emergency management, disaster mitigation and national security.
Labor's national conference
Labor has flagged reform of the Financial Assistance Grants to local government if it wins government federally.
Landcare awards open for entries
Landcare Australia encourages all local governments to celebrate their environmental achievements as the 2007-2008 State and Territory Landcare Awards open for entries.

27 April 2007

Alice Springs becomes the newest 'Solar City'
Alice Springs has become the fourth Australian city to receive funding under a federal program promoting solar power.
Safer trucks to service the growing freight task
Australia's Transport Ministers have approved a COAG-backed reform to allow semi-trailers and B-doubles fitted with quad axle groups to carry heavy loads more safely on a defined road network.
Local Government Associations talk financial sustainability
Two State Local Government Associations gave financial sustainability centre-stage in conferences last week as local government tackles core issues of infrastructure, cost shifting and sustainability.

20 April 2007

Councils pool ideas on Infrastructure Register
The Community Infrastructure Ideas Register now has over 70 entries – more than double last week's tally!
COAG - A historic day for local government
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell has hailed last Friday's Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meeting as "a historic day for local government." COAG discussed a paper prepared by the Australian Local Government Association, in consultation with Commonwealth and State officials, on local government funding arrangements. COAG noted work currently being undertaken by the Local Government and Planning Ministers' Council on local government financial sustainability, and the recently commissioned Productivity Commission review of local government's own source revenue raising capacity. COAG agreed that the Ministerial Council discuss broader local government funding issues and also agreed to discuss the issue further following the outcome of the Productivity Commission's study.
Tidy Towns competition for ALGA readers
For over 30 years, Keep Australia Beautiful has been encouraging people all around Australia to care for their local environment through its Australian Tidy Towns Awards.

13 April 2007

Climate Change dominates COAG agenda
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell said that climate change would be high on the agenda at today's Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meeting.
Productivity Commission Study into Local Government Own Source Revenue - an important part of building the sustainability picture
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell AM said the Productivity Commission (PC) Review should provide an important input into consideration of broader local government financial sustainability issues.
Local Government Association Presidents and NSW Councillors attend Commonwealth Local Government Forum Conference Dinner
More than 600 elected officials, leading experts, and practitioners in local government from across more than 40 Commonwealth nations attended the fourth international Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF) Conference in Auckland recently. The biennial conference is organised by the Commonwealth Local Government Forum and is a unique event for ministers of local government, local government leaders and other involved in local government decision-making to share ideas and good practice. At the Conference dinner, the ALGA President Cr Paul Bell had the pleasure to share company with several senior local government colleagues and distinguished guests, including the Mayor Hon Robert Montague, Chair of the CLGF since April 2006.

05 April 2007

Extension of the Black Spot Program
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile, and the Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads, Jim Lloyd, announced on the eve of Easter that the Australian Government would extend and increase the level of funding for the Black Spot Program.
Local government airs concerns at Climate Change Summit
ALGA President, Cr Paul Bell AM, said that climate change was one of the most serious issues facing Australian communities and that local government was well-placed to advise on ways of meeting these challenges.
Councils submit ideas to Community Infrastructure Register
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell said he was encouraged by the enthusiastic support by councils to the Community Infrastructure Ideas Register which came on-line with last week's edition of ALGA news.

30 March 2007

Community Infrastructure Ideas Register
ALGA has set up a database so councils and other interested parties can register examples of the types of community infrastructure that could be funded under a proposed Local Community Infrastructure Renewals Fund (LCIRF). The ideas register has been developed for councils to assist ALGA in putting the case for support for such a program. It gives councils the opportunity to identify specific examples of local community infrastructure that would benefit from this initiative.
Airports Amendment Bill passes through Parliament
The Australian Parliament passed the legislation this week with the only change from the original Bill being the increase in the consultation period from 45 to 60 working days proposed by ALGA in its submission to the Senate Inquiry that examined the legislation.
Federal Opposition raises the stakes in high speed broadband
The Federal Opposition has announced plans to revolutionise Australia's internet infrastructure if it wins the next Federal Election by creating a new world class National Broadband Network.

23 March 2007

Local government wins NSW election campaign
With the NSW election being held tomorrow, the Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW (LGSANSW) has had substantial success with its campaign to put pressure on the major parties to include issues relevant to local government and local communities in their election platforms.
World's greatest shave
Local government's involvement in community activities and causes is shown by Holroyd City Council which is setting a fine example with its enthusiastic involvement in the World's Greatest Shave campaign.
Local Government Cycling Survey
The Australian Bicycle Council, with the support of ALGA, is undertaking a survey of local government to benchmark the current status of cycling at the local government level across Australia.

16 March 2007

Local Roads and Transport Congress 2007
Over the past couple of years the Roads and Transport Congress has worked hard to develop local government's roads and transport priorities for the future - culminating with the launch of the Local Roads and Transport Strategy at the National General Assembly in November last year. This year's Congress, to be held in Newcastle 8-10 July, will investigate each of the five strategies and provide opportunities for delegates to contribute to the discussion on how to achieve local government's objectives.
SMART trucks can reduce road trauma
Safer and more productive SMART heavy vehicles can reduce road trauma in Australian cities.
Call for ban on alfresco smoking to be extended
The Heart Foundation today called on the State Government to extend its smoke-free legislation to cover alfresco dining and drinking areas throughout the State.

09 March 2007

International Women's Day – 8 March 2007
To mark International Women’s Day, the President of ALGA, Cr Paul Bell, has joined with the Australian Local Government Women's Association (ALGWA) to urge more women to consider local government, either by standing for office or as a career option.
Harmony Day – councils take up their bat and ball
The word is going out for Mayors and Councillors to go in to bat for community harmony by taking part in Crickids Australia’s Biggest Cricket Game Harmony Day on 21 March.
Broadband announcement promises subsidised internet access
The Prime Minister John Howard has announced the Australian Broadband Guarantee, under which the government will commit almost $163 million to provide subsidised internet access for Australians currently unable to gain a reasonable access to broadband services.

02 March 2007

Local government's vision for the cyber-highway
The Australian Local Government Association’s involvement in the development of the Broadband Blueprint Implementation Plan was discussed at a meeting between ALGA President Cr Paul Bell and the Minister for Communications, IT and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan. ALGA is represented at the Online Ministers Council.
Meeting with Minister Lloyd
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell met with the Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads, Jim Lloyd, in Canberra on Wednesday to argue for a 5-year extension to the Roads to Recovery Program and the Strategic Regional component of AusLink. Cr Bell also emphasised the crucial success of the Blackspot Program in improving road safety at locations with a history of crashes involving death or injury. The program expires at the end of the next financial year. “The Backspot Program has made a very important contribution towards achieving a reduction in the road toll,” Cr Bell said. “The Government’s strong support for the program is understood and appreciated by councils around Australia and I urge the Government to extend this program beyond June 2008 so that many more Australians will benefit from the reduction of serious road crashes.”
Local government welcomes PM's $10b Murray package
ALGA President Paul Bell has welcomed the outcome of last Friday’s Water Summit. He said that local government’s contribution to the debate was reflected in the communiqué which explicitly stated that local government would be consulted in the development of the Memorandum of Understanding, through ALGA.

23 February 2007

Save our cities - a national action plan
The Board of the Australian Local Government Association has agreed to adopt the Sustainable Cities - National Action Plan (NAP) as a basis for further developing ALGA's position on sustainable urban planning policy and climate change.
Caucus Regional Committee
The President of the Australian Local Government Association, Cr Paul Bell, was invited to address the Caucus Regional Committee at Parliament House last week.
Improving sustainability for local government
Addressing CPA Australia at conferences in Melbourne and Brisbane recently, ALGA President Cr Paul Bell outlined the financial sustainability crisis facing councils and what action was needed to ensure that local governments remained financially viable into the future.

16 February 2007

Increase in aged care funding announced
The recent announcement of a $1.5 billion funding package for the aged care sector has been welcomed by ALGA. This package will provide an increase in funding for residents of aged care homes, which is significant for both local government providers of aged care, as well as those communities that have ageing populations.
Airports Amendment Bill
The Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile, announced on 13 February a change to the Airports Amendment Bill 2006 to provide for an increase in the public consultation period from 45 to 60 business days.
Meeting with Bob McMullan, the Shadow Minister for Federal/State Relations
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell met with Bob McMullan, the Shadow Minister for Federal/State Relations on Wednesday.

9 February 2007

Talks to continue on $10b national water plan
Talks will resume on February 23 in Canberra as the Premiers yesterday demanded further concessions and funding before agreeing to Prime Minister John Howard's John Howard's $10 billion, 10-year water plan.
It's a dry argument for local government
The central NSW town of Wallabadah has become the 12th community in the state to import water after running dry today. Water was trucked into Wallabadah when its reservoir became empty after the town well failed.
Labor plan for childcare waiting list
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell has cautiously welcomed a Labor proposal to work with local governments to develop a single waiting list for childcare places in each local government area.

2 February 2007

Meeting with Senator Kate Lundy, Shadow Minister for Local Government
A meeting between the President of the Australian Local Government Association, Cr Paul Bell, and the Shadow Minister for Local Government, Senator Kate Lundy was described by both parties as 'extremely constructive.'
Broadband discussions with Senator Coonan
ALGA President Cr Paul Bell will be meeting with the Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan later this month.
Extra $1 million for line marking on Tasmanian roads
The State Government will contribute an extra $1 million toward line marking on local government roads, Minister for Infrastructure Jim Cox said today.

25 January 2007

Vaile, Lloyd retain portfolios, new Minister for Environment and Water Resources
The President of the Australian Local Government Association, Cr Paul Bell AM, said the reshuffle of the Federal Ministry was welcomed by ALGA because it kept in place the winning team of Ministers Vaile and Lloyd in the transport/local government portfolios.
AusLink projects announcements
Three other Victorian projects have also been announced as successful under the AusLink Strategic Regional Program.
New Tax Office decision for local government
The Tax Office recently released an interpretative decision concerning superannuation and local government councillors' salary sacrifice arrangements.
 
Page last updated: 7 February 2008