The South Australian Budget includes a new $100 million Local Government Infrastructure Partnership Program.

SA councils have welcomed the latest Budget, saying it appears to have a strong focus on infrastructure investment and stimulus funding.

As well as the  $100 million Local Government Infrastructure Partnership Program, it includes $10 million for regional sport and recreation facilities and $1 million for a Local Government Online Information Framework.

The Local Government Association of SA says councils will join with the state on the shared goal of fast-tracking the SA’s economic recovery.

“It will enable local government to bring forward hundreds of millions of dollars in projects, improving the liveability and amenity of our streets, suburbs, towns and regions,” said LGA president Angela Evans.

“Councils will be looking to move quickly on projects so the benefits of this funding can start flowing into our communities where it is needed.”

Cr Evans said the Local Government Online Information Framework must be delivered in partnership with the local government sector.

“The LGA has been advocating for State Government investment in a local government information framework for several years and we appreciate this commitment,” Cr Evans said.

“The LGA is already working on the development of a system for measuring and reporting the performance of councils to the community.

“We hope that the Government will use the $1 million to partner with us to deliver an enhanced program that will help councils identify opportunities to become even more efficient, and drive downward pressure on rates.”