The 2023 Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) National General Assembly (NGA) kicks off in Canberra, with more than 1,100 delegates to discuss how councils can partner with the Federal Government to deliver a better future for Australian communities.
ALGA President, City of Sydney Councillor Linda Scott said local governments were the most trusted level of government, representing every corner of Australia.
“Meeting this week in Canberra, local governments will work together to share ideas to best support our communities, whilst speaking as one to the Prime Minister and Federal Government about how we can best partner together to achieve more for the public good,” said President Scott.
This year’s program features a wide range of speakers and issues, including how local governments are working with communities, and especially vulnerable members, to mitigate cost of living pressures and skyrocketing prices. Local government leaders are also set to share innovations to ensure councils can help reduce Australia’s emissions.
“Local governments are offering much-needed cost of living relief, providing free and low-cost services such as libraries and meals on wheels, as well as open spaces, parks and playing fields. But our local governments can do so much more with the right support and effectively partner with the Government to deliver on its key national priorities,” President Scott said.
“For decades, local governments across the nation have been leading climate action and reducing our carbon footprints. Sustainably funded, we have a major role to play in supporting the Government to achieve its target of net zero emissions by 2050.
“During this year’s 29th local government conference, we will share innovations to increase our ability to prevent damage from increasing natural disasters, tackle cyber security, improve closing the gap measures between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians and build a more productive workforce to ensure local governments can deliver local solutions to national challenges.”
This year marks the historic return of the Australian Council of Local Government (ACLG), which will meet for the first time in more than a decade on 16 June.
“This is a valuable opportunity for Australian council leaders to speak directly to Federal Ministers, and hear from the Prime Minister, about key issues and opportunities facing their communities,” President Scott said.
A record 450 delegates are expected to attend ALGA’s 2023 Regional Cooperation and Development Forum today, making it the largest event to date.
