750 local government representatives are expected to attend ACLG 2024

The Federal Government is expecting a record turnout from councils at this week’s Australian Council of Local Governments (ACLG).

The ACLG 2024 meeting, which will be held on Friday alongside the Australian Association of Local Governments National General Assembly, aims to deliver a national hearing on local government priorities where officials can engage with ministers about the issues affecting their local government.

More than 750 representatives from local governments are expected to attend, including mayors, county presidents, councillors, chief executives and peak bodies.

“The ACLG is the cornerstone of the Albanian Government’s Local Government Programme. Last year, 271 councils participated and discussed key issues such as housing supply, energy transition, roads and social infrastructure,” said Catherine King, Minister of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government.

“Through this program we continue to work with local councils to ensure they can deliver great services to their communities and make their areas great places to live, work and thrive.”

FAGs moved forward

Ms King admitted that local governments face many challenges, including: with financial stability, economic barriers, labor shortages and natural disasters.

That’s why the government has allocated $2.78 billion in financial aid, which is 85 percent. funds allocated to FAG for 2024–2025, she added.

“It is important that we stand shoulder to shoulder and together determine how we can overcome these challenges together, and that is what we are doing by accelerating these essential cash disbursements and organizing the ACLG,” she said.

ALGA President Linda Scott welcomed the early payment to FAGS.

“This independent funding is vital for councils and bringing forward 85 per cent of their allocation for 2024-25 will significantly assist budget planning and provide certainty for the next financial year,” she said.

Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain said local government should not be neglected when it comes to whole-of-government policy, with the government renewing its commitment to the forum.

“Councils are committed to helping their communities, which is why we have re-invited them to join us as a trusted partner in delivering these projects. Their expertise is key to the positive change we want to deliver,” she said.

“Getting everyone in the same room to discuss how to address challenges and maximize opportunities has a huge impact on improving service delivery, developing fit-for-purpose programs and getting money where it is needed most.”

The ALGA National Assembly will be held in Canberra from 2–4 July.

The National Local Government Awards will be presented at the ACLG Gala Dinner on Thursday evening.

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