Minister for Local Government Natalie Hutchins has urged Victorians to attend one of a series of community forums to have their say on how local government can best meet the needs of their community.

The Andrews Labor Government is conducting the first comprehensive review of the Local Government Act and will consider all aspects with a view to updating the legislation to provide clear guidance to the local government sector and community.

The 1989 Act has been amended hundreds of times, resulting in an Act that is poorly structured, unclear and even contradictory in some places.

Our job is to create a clear Act, that meets the current and future needs of the community and councils.

From Horsham to Wangaratta, from Dandenong to Swan Hill, the Labor Government is seeking feedback to ensure communities have a say in how the Act can best meet the current and future needs of the community and councils.

Ms Hutchins called on Victorians to share ideas, provide feedback and take polls about ideas already submitted to the Act Review on www.yourcouncilyourcommunity.vic.gov.au.

Ideas already submitted include;

• Simplifying electoral structures
• Increasing authority of mayors
• More community input into decision making
• Improving transparency and accountability

For more information, visit yourcouncilyourcommunity.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government Natalie Hutchins

“I urge all Victorians – from Shepparton to Sunshine – to have their say on the role of local government in Victoria.” 

“This review provides us with the opportunity to refresh the role of local government in Victoria – and the relationship between councils and the state government.”

“The 1989 Act is outdated and no longer provides clarity on the role of councils, we’re reviewing the Act to bring it into the 21st century and give communities the first class councils that they deserve.”