The federal government is expecting record attendance from councils at this week’s Australian Council of Local Government (ACLG).
The 2024 ACLG, to be held on Friday alongside the Australian Local Government Association’s National General Assembly, is designed to give local government priorities a national hearing, with officials able to engage with ministers about issues in their LGA.
It’s expected to be attended by more than 750 local government representatives, including mayors, shire presidents, councillors, CEOs, and peak bodies.
“The ACLG is a core pillar of the Albanese Government’s local government agenda, with representatives from 271 councils participating last year, discussing critical topics such as housing supply, energy transition, roads and community infrastructure,” Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said.
“Through this agenda, we are continuing to work with local councils to ensure they can deliver outstanding services to communities and make their regions great places to live, work and thrive.”
FAGs brought forward
Ms King acknowledged local government has been up against many challenges including financial sustainability and economic barriers, workforce shortages and natural disasters.
That’s why the government had brought forward $2.78 billion in financial assistance, representing 85 per cent of FAG allocations for 2024-25, she said.
“It’s important we stand side by side to identify how we can work together to overcome these challenges, which is exactly what we are doing by bringing forward these vital cash payments and hosting the ACLG,’ she said.
ALGA President Linda Scott welcomed the early FAGS payment.
“This untied funding is critical for councils, and bringing forward 85 per cent of their 2024-25 allocations will greatly assist with budget planning and certainty for next financial year,” she said.
Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain said local government shouldn’t be an afterthought when it comes to whole-of-government policies, and the government was renewing its commitment to the forum.
“Councils go that extra mile for their community, which is why we’ve brought them back to the table as a trusted delivery partner, and why their expertise is central to the positive changes we want to make,” she said.
“Getting everyone in the same room to discuss how we can tackle challenges and maximise opportunities has a huge impact on strengthening service delivery, forging fit-for-purpose programs, and delivering money where it’s needed most.”
The ALGA National General Assembly runs from July 2-4 in Canberra.
The National Awards for Local Government will be presented at the ACLG Gala Dinner on Thursday evening.
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