The ASU has been fighting for local government financial sustainability, a fight that will not only result in job security for council workers but also quality of services for all in our communities. As part of our campaign, the ASU commissioned two reports which have been released this week.
The report makes a series of recommendations that go to rate capping, council fees and charges, government grants, introduction of a local government ombudsman, amongst other matters. The report says:
While none of these recommendations alone will prove to be a solution, together they have the potential to address local governments’ financial sustainability. If we expect local governments to remain an integral part of the governmental service delivery model, then we cannot afford to remain on the same path.
The second report, “Our Local – a history of local government services and building community resilience” was produced by the ASU National Office and represents an extensive review of the sector.
McKell Insititute report: Giving Local Governments the Reboot, 14 September 2016 (