Bringing local government back to the table

As part of the Albanese Labor Government’s commitment to bringing local government back to the table as a trusted delivery partner of the services communities rely on, the Australian Council of Local Government (ACLG) will be re-established.

The annual forum will put leaders of local government and the Commonwealth in one room, allowing Ministers to directly hear about the issues impacting the local government sector.

The 2023 ACLG will be held on Friday 16 June 2023 in Canberra, following the Australian Local Government Association’s (ALGA) 2023 National General Assembly of Local Government from 13-15 June.

The ACLG was first established as an annual formal meeting by then Minister for Local Government, Anthony Albanese in 2008, where over 1,000 participants meet in Canberra for a day of productive conversations and workshops.

Local Government is fundamental to the lives of each and every Australian, and the Government is committed to working closely with councils across a range of areas.

This includes providing $2.9 billion in 2022-23 to Australia’s 546 councils through its Financial Assistance Grant program, $500 million in Roads to Recovery funding, and increasing the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program by $250 million to $750 million.

ALGA is also invited to attend meetings of the National Cabinet and the Council on Federal Financial Relations annually.

Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“Re-establishing the Australian Council of Local Government will bring mayors, shire presidents and local government stakeholders together with Commonwealth Ministers, and the Prime Minister.

“This is an opportunity to bring local councils to Canberra to speak directly with Ministers and myself over the pressing issues impacting the sector.

“We will give local government the central role and seat at the table it deserves, and draw on the local know-how to deliver our shared priorities.”

Quotes attributable to Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister Kristy McBain:

“Bringing back the ACLG recognises the important role local governments play in delivering services to our communities, and the benefits of partnering together at all levels of government.

“This was neglected over the last decade and had a significant impact on local communities, which is why I’m so pleased that we’re delivering on our important election commitment to re-establish the ACLG.

“As a former mayor and regional councillor, I know how hard the local government sector are working for their communities. That’s why I’ll continue to stand up for them through this enhanced collaborative forum, which will bring the expertise of local government and Ministers together in one room.”

Quotes attributable to Australian Local Government Association President Cr Linda Scott:

“We are thrilled to be working with the Government to deliver the first Australian Council of Local Government in more than a decade.

“This will be a valuable opportunity for Australian councils to speak directly to Federal Ministers about the key issues and opportunities for our communities.

“Importantly, the ACLG will follow and be informed by the discussions at our National General Assembly, which is the biggest annual gathering of local government leaders in Australia.

“Re-establishing the Australian Council of Local Government shows the respect this Government has for councils, and its strong commitment to working with us to deliver better results for our communities.”