Local and state government representatives have signed an agreement for better communication in South Australia.

The deal was signed by SA Premier Jay Weatherill and the President of the Local Government Association, Mayor David O’Loughlin at the Premier’s State/Local Government Forum Executive Committee meeting in Adelaide.

Both parties say the document recognises the need for State and Local Government to work collaboratively in the interests of all communities.

They have pledged to improve efficiency, effectiveness and co-ordination of State services and infrastructure.

The agreement also recognises the value in seeking each other’s support when making representations to the Commonwealth on matters of significance affecting State and Local Government.

Key issues discussed or noted at the Premier’s State/Local Government Forum Executive Committee meeting included:

  • Agreeing on the scope for potential Local Government reforms to enhance capacity building, identifying and addressing efficiencies within Local Government and between State and Local Government.
  • Potential opportunities for joint State-Local Government approaches to progressing infrastructure of regional importance that underpins economic growth.
  • The State Government’s intention to introduce a Bill to amend the Local Government Act 1999 (the Act) in the first half of 2015, including clarification of the conflict of interest provisions and other matters, some of which were requested by the LGA.
  • Exploring a joint procurement pilot between the State Government and a small group of Councils for construction and road maintenance with an emphasis on the use of recycled material.
  • The opportunities that continuing and more focussed engagement by Local Government could provide to further the 10 Economic Priorities to the State’s economic growth, including alignment of priorities where appropriate.
  • The State Government’s Strategic Priority – Healthy Neighbourhoods – through identifying and leveraging the excellent work that Councils are undertaking at local and regional levels to promote this priority.
  • Minister Brock provided a verbal update on regional development matters. 
  • Discussion about ensuring appropriate consultation has occurred with the LGA as part of the process of preparing submissions for Cabinet consideration.
  • The LGA raised the cessation of pensioner concession payments on 1 July 2015, and members noted the continuing efforts of the LGA and the Local Government sector for their reinstatement.
  • The important role of the local Councils in responding to the recent Adelaide Hills bushfires and agreed that any inquiry into this response should highlight successful actions for future reference.

Many in the local government sector will be keen to see the agreement followed-through.