Council had strong representation at the 2022 Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) meeting in Canberra, which saw approximately 900 councillor, CEOs and staff registered.
"There was a cross-section of issues raised, including funding to local government, roads funding, environment and sustainability, the housing crisis and worker availability," said Cr Chris Potter, who reported on the meeting in the August Council Meeting, and attended alongside Mayor Kate Hanson, Deputy Mayor Graham Costin and Chief Executive Officer, Anne Howard.
A key purpose of the conference is to highlight to the Federal government the local government and community issues and needs, and to influence Federal Government decisions and policy. It was also a chance for local government representatives to meet with politicians, including the new Federal Minister for Local Government, Kristy McBain.
There were a number of seminars available with Mayor Hanson attending a Leadership seminar, Deputy Mayor Graham Costin attending one in relation to environment and Cr Potter attending a seminar relating to planning for and recovery from natural disasters, especially flooding and fire.
"A highlight was an address and presentation by the Ukrainian Ambassador to Austrlaia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko," said Cr Potter, "A large number of exhibitors were also present, including an electric truck display, electric mowers, greening Australia and an Airbnb stand."
Deputy Mayor Graham Costin took the opportunity to spend time with the Airbnb representatives discussing issues and solutions to the impact of the proliferation of Airbnb's along our coast.
"The Colac Otway Shire delegation also took the opportunity to discuss issues with our neighbouring shires, who were well represented, and those further afield from metropolitan and rural Australia," said Cr Potter. "It was appropriate and worthwhile to have a shire delegation attend this conference, the premier industry event for local government."
To read the full report on the National General Assembly in Canberra, please go to the August Council meeting agenda at www.colacotway.vic.gov.au.
