Cessnock City Council notes with concern the findings of the recently released Local Government New South Wales (LGNSW) Cost Shifting report for the 2021/2022 financial year.
At its council meeting on 21 February 2024, Councillors resolved to note the findings outlined in the LGNSW Cost Shifting report for FY21/22 and make a copy available to the public on Council's website.
Cessnock City Mayor Jay Suvaal stated that the findings in the LGNSW Cost Shifting report underscore the financial challenges faced by local government authorities, including Cessnock, exacerbated by instances of cost shifting by other levels of government.
"We are committed to advocating for our community and will work collaboratively with the State Government to address these challenges," said Clr Suvaal.
"It is essential that regulatory reforms, budgetary provisions, and funding allocations reflect the needs and priorities of our local area."
Council further resolved to express its concerns in writing to the Premier, NSW Treasurer, Minister for Local Government and State Member for Cessnock. The letter will advocate for concrete measures to address ongoing practices of cost shifting through a combination of regulatory reform, budgetary provision, and appropriate funding allocation.
Cessnock City Council encourages residents, businesses, and community organisations to stay informed about these important developments by reading the LGNSW Cost Shifting report here.(PDF, 1MB)
