Close to 1,000 Mayors and Councillors will meet in Canberra today for the 2022 National General Assembly of Local Government.
The annual event comes at a time of renewed focus on local government’s ability to deliver real progress in our communities, the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) said in a statement today.
“While Australia’s 537 councils are committed to facilitating more affordable housing, reducing local emissions, building healthier communities, and reducing cost-of-living pressures for families, many are dealing with a revenue crisis stemming from COVID and natural disaster impacts, and caps on rates of income,” the Association said.
“As a result, some councils are having to contemplate service cuts and facility closures.
“Avoiding this outcome will be a key focus of the three-day event, which will include speeches from the Governor-General and Federal Ministers Catherine King and Murray Watt.”
This morning’s opening includes addresses from the Governor-General David Hurley; Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King, and ALGA President, City of Sydney Councillor, Linda Scott.
The Governor-General will provide an address on the nation-defining natural disasters that have impacted Australia in the past year; while Minister King will present virtually to the conference on the Government’s vision for working with local governments.
ALGA President Scott will present to the Assembly on key challenges and opportunities for Australian councils.
