Individual local government are represented by their state peak associations (The Municipal Association of Victoria for Victorian Councils) and in turn through the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) at a national level.
Each year ALGA holds its National General Assembly, where local councils propose motions to advocate to the Commonwealth Government and influence priorities.
I attended the National General Assembly in Canberra along with the Mayor, Cr Crawford (Elwood), Cr Libby Buckingham (Balaclava) and Cr Rod Hardy (Albert Ward)
The City of Port Phillip proposed two motions for this year’s National General Assembly:
This National General Assembly strongly urges the Australian Government to invest further in Australia’s urban sustainable and active transport infrastructure projects. By prioritising these initiatives, the government can ensure the development of a robust, environmentally friendly transport network that meets the needs of current and future generations. Such investment will stimulate economic growth, improve the quality of life for all Australians, enhance connectivity and reduce carbon emissions.
This motion supports Federal Government investment in urban transport, including public transport, walking and cycling. Commonwealth involvement will assist in delivering the public transport improvements that are essential to the future of Fishermans Bend.
And:
That the National General Assembly calls on the Australian Government to strengthen and invest in community services by:
Fostering community safety and social cohesion through dedicated funding streams and resources for local councils to implement evidence-based community safety initiatives that promote social cohesion and inclusivity. These initiatives may include infrastructure improvements (e.g. improved lighting, clear and effective signage, graffiti removal, safer pedestrian routes), delivery of events, community engagement programs, and anti-discrimination measures.
Providing provisions to upgrade and increase stock of public place CCTV and mobile CCTV trailers where appropriate. This will enhance public safety, deter criminal activities, and assist law enforcement agencies in monitoring and responding to incidents more effectively.
Improving community wellbeing through:
- ensuring more inclusive and accessible public spaces;
- dedicated graffiti mitigation and removal programs;
- expanding funding for mental health support services and social cohesion programs;
- partnering with councils to deliver sustainable, local programs that address the impacts of rising living costs, with a particular focus on supporting the most vulnerable in our communities; and
- delivering increased funding to support homelessness services and prevention initiatives, ensuring individuals receive assistance before reaching crisis levels.
This motion addresses initiatives to improve community safety and reduce social isolation.
Both motions were unanimously adopted by the National General Assembly and will now form part of ALGA’s advocacy to the Federal Government.
Beyond the National General Assembly, ALGA also provides an opportunity to reinforce Council’s priorities to the Federal Government.
As a Council we held a meeting with Minister Kristy McBain (Commonwealth Minister for Local Government and Emergency Management) where we discussed the need for federal involvement in city shaping transport projects within Fishermans Bend and resourcing required for emergency management, given the increased risks of flooding that exist within Port Phillip.
Furthermore, ALGA provides an opportunity to meet local government Councillors across Australia, providing vital knowledge exchange. Today, there is much less networking opportunities amongst Councillors, when compared to my time on Maroondah City Council between 2004 and 2012. Networking within the sector is vital to discussing best practice and innovation, which is vital for the viability of local government,
Since being elected to Port Phillip in 2024 there are several examples where both my previous knowledge in local government and my ability to discuss issues with Councillors beyond the boundaries of Port Phillip have led to better informed decision making and policy improvements.
While Canberra in the middle of winter is one of my least preferred destinations, the opportunity share knowledge and reinforce community priorities does make the trip worthwhile.
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