The Australian Government welcomes Cr Matt Burnett as the newly-elected president of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA).
Cr Burnett brings extensive experience in the local government sector, having served for 24 years, including as ALGA's Vice President since 2020, as the Mayor of Queensland's Gladstone Regional Council since 2016 and before that as Deputy Mayor for five years.
He also represents Central Queensland on the Local Government Association of Queensland Policy Executive and is a Director on the Board.
As National President of ALGA, Cr Burnett will represent the Australian local government sector on the national stage, such as the Australian Council of Local Governments (ACLG), the Local Government Ministers' Forum, as well as meetings of the National Cabinet and other Australian Government forums.
The Government also recognises the leadership of outgoing President Linda Scott and thanks her for her service to local government, which began in 2012.
This includes eight years at ALGA, four being in the role of National President advocating for and representing the sector, as well as service as former President of Local Government NSW and Deputy Lord Mayor and councillor for the City of Sydney.
The Government will continue to partner with local government to ensure our towns, cities and regions remain great places to live, work and do business.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King:
"I congratulate Cr Burnett for his election to the National President role and look forward to continuing our Government's strong productive working relationship with ALGA and the local government sector more broadly.
"I also want to thank outgoing President Linda Scott for her tireless advocacy for local government and I wish her all the best for the future.
"Local governments are a trusted partner of the Australian Government, and we will continue to work with them to drive a brighter future for Australians, no matter where they live."
Quotes attributable to Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Kristy McBain:
"This is a fantastic appointment by ALGA, because Matt Burnett is someone that has long championed the local government sector, and someone who is passionate about our shared priorities for the future.
"Having recently spent time with Mayor Burnett at Gladstone, it's clear to see how much he's delivered for his local community, and I'm excited about what we'll achieve together in his new national role.
"I'd like to thank Linda Scott, who's been central to rebuilding the partnership between local councils and the Commonwealth, which has underpinned our funding increases for the local government sector, and the successful delivery of two Australian Council of Local Government forums."
