Councils work for locals

THE conversation about the future of local government is certainly active and things have come along way since the Access Economics report in 2007. After this report, the Local Government Association of Tasmania implemented an extensive program to build capacity of councils for long-term financial and asset management planning. It included securing nearly $1m from the commonwealth for training andre form.LG AT worked with state government on a new legislative framework, key performance indicators and supporting practice notes for councils. An independent report for the commonwealth evaluated these reforms as nation leading. LGAT is supporting skills in asset and financial management, with asset management training just this week. Reports of

the Auditor-General since the 2014 legislation have shown continuous improvement. Councils are working together to share technology, assets and skills and making significant savings with shared procurement through LGAT.

Regardless of pro sand cons of amalgamation, to link significant efforts made by councils to support communities in response to C OVID -19 to questions of financial sustainability is inappropriate. All levels of government across the country are in the same boat. Place-based capital programs being implemented by councils will be a key driver of social and economic recovery. Councils will continue to work for the best interest so four communities.

West Ta mar Mayor Christina Holm dahl

president, LGAT