23 July 2020 

In response to your calls, LGNSW is asking NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian to ensure local government is represented on National Cabinet, so all three tiers of government can best work together to drive locally led recovery right across Australia.

Local government needs a seat at the table and a voice in discussions about issues of national significance, not only to flag the impact of federal policies on councils and the communities they serve, but to help shape our nation’s future. This is particularly important now that the vast majority of decision-making is referred to the National Cabinet.

Please join with LGNSW, Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) and our interstate colleagues to ensure this message is heard by undertaking your own direct advocacy with the Premier of NSW and your local MPs. Thank you to Shellharbour Council who passed the resolution this week. To support you in these efforts we have developed an Advocacy Kit, which you can access here. Please email Kelly Kwan, Executive Manager, Advocacy to let us know when your council has moved this motion!

ADVOCACY UPDATE! This week:

• Win! Productivity Commission Review backs rate reform; our calls for change are reflected in the Productivity Commission Review of Infrastructure Contributions in NSW issues paper. Released this week, the Paper acknowledges what councils have been saying for decades: enforced pegging of local government rates hinders growth and the delivery of infrastructure and services in NSW communities. LGNSW continues to advocate for the complete removal of rate pegging and urges the NSW Government to ensure the continuation of a strong system of developer contributions for community infrastructure. Refer to media release.

• State Government’s $50 million support package for the arts sector impacted by COVID-19; we are deeply disappointed that councils are not eligible. This latest decision places pressure on local budgets, with councils spending more than $500 million a year on arts and culture: on par with NSW Government expenditure. LGNSW is strongly advocating for increased State support for local government-led cultural and creative activities in the interests of social cohesion, community health, wellbeing, education and the economy. For further information, email Elizabeth Robertson Senior Policy Officer, Social and Community.

COVID-19 Health and Safety

Congratulations to everyone who is working so hard to prevent a further wave of COVID. It’s important to remind people about the importance of hand washing and the rules around physical distancing, particularly at gatherings or when out and about. Councils have been asked to encourage local businesses to demonstrate to staff and customers they have registered a COVID-19 Safety Plan . NSW Health and NSW Multicultural Health Communication Service have also developed COVID-19 education resources in multiple languages.

While council staff don’t have powers or resources to enforce Health Orders, Councils are encouraged to ensure local Police are notified when they see social distancing breaches or businesses not complying with their COVID plans, to keep communities safe.

REMINDER

Bluett Award entries close 31 July! – Please consider entering local government’s most prestigious award this year to have your council’s excellence and progress recognised. More information

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