The Greater Ballarat Alliance of Councils (GBAC) quarterly meeting took place in Daylesford on Friday, with mayors and CEOs agreeing on regional priorities that they say will require Federal Government support and action.
Council leaders advocated for an equitable share of government funding to ensure residents have access to adequate infrastructure and services.
Hepburn Shire Council Mayor, Don Henderson said regional councils need a commitment from government to improve access to housing, major transport networks, digital infrastructure and adequate funding to ensure the financial and communal success of the region.
“The meeting was a good opportunity to come together to align interests and put forward a united voice. We need the Federal Government to further support regional councils to ensure their financial viability and community growth. It is critical that federal leadership commits to empowering local governments for the betterment of all Australians,” said Mayor Henderson.
“The time to act is now – with a Federal Election around the corner, adequate Federal support for our region is long overdue. All parties in the election need to commit to supporting local government,” he said.
The Hepburn Shire Mayor also met with newly-appointed State Minister for Local Government, Nick Staikos and local MP, Mary-Anne Thomas on Friday to discuss the current opportunities and challenges facing the Shire.
The Future Hepburn project, described as “a once-in-a-generation program of major projects”, was discussed and how it intersects with the new ‘Plan for Victoria’ released by the Victorian Government.
“We are committed to protecting the region’s rural lifestyle while planning for future growth and meeting targets set by the State Government,” said Mayor Henderson.
Meeting directly with the Minister and Mary-Anne Thomas MP, gave us the opportunity to be upfront about the issues facing the Shire.”
Other topics discussed included the new waste service guidelines, the emergency services and volunteers fund, our Financial Vision and other community-related issues.
“Council will continue to advocate for its community to ensure it can deliver key programs and projects now and into the future,” said Mayor Henderson.
