MORE THAN 40 local government representatives will gather to discuss opportunities to work together to achieve ambitious emissions reduction across Western Australia in a forum today.
The Discovering Collaborative Opportunities forum will bring together representatives from regions including Perth and South West Western Australia in an open-forum discussion aimed at creating a sustainable future for Western Australia.
Hosted by the Cities Power Partnership and supported by the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA), outcomes from the virtual session will inform a series of future events to ensure councils are collaborating to scale impact and create a prosperous future for their communities.
Town of Bassendean Deputy Mayor Renee McLennan said the forum couldn't come at a better time, as people were wanting to look to the future and seize the opportunities available right now in renewable energy generation and sustainable transport.
"Bassendean is already embracing renewable energy, sustainable transport and providing community education, but more can be done," said Deputy Mayor McLennan.
"The event today will focus on how Western Australian councils can work together to ensure we are best placed to enjoy the benefits like new jobs, lower electricity bills and improved resilience of our homes and communities."
Ray Wills, futurist and Adjunct Professor at the University of Western Australia, said towns, cities and local governments are a critical part of Australia's climate solution and are delivering substantial emissions cuts.
"Just last month, 51 councils across Western Australia participated in a landmark agreement negotiated by WALGA enabling them to make the switch to source 100 per cent renewable energy. The potential for cities and regions to pool their resources and invest in affordable, reliable clean energy is enormous," said Professor Wills.
"This forum is about creating an open discussion between local governments who are well placed to take advantage of solutions like solar and batteries, clean manufacturing and zero emissions vehicles."
"There is a genuine appetite in the local government sector to lead the way on zero emissions and the shift to renewable energy is a giant step in the right direction," said WALGA President Mayor Tracey Roberts.
The forum will cover topics including: renewable energy, clean technology and electric vehicles.
Councils in attendance:
Shire of Augusta-Margaret River City of Albany
City of Armadale
Town of Bassendean
City of Bayswater
City of Bunbury
CIty of Canning
Shire of Capel
City of Cockburn
Town of Cottesloe
Shire of Dowerin
Town of East Fremantle
Shire of Esperance
City of Gosnells
City of Greater Geraldton
City of Joondalup
City of Karratha
City of Melville
Town of Mosman Park
Shire of Murray
Shire of Mundaring
Shire of Northam
City of Perth
City of Rockingham
Shire of Shark Bay
City of Stirling
City of Swan
City of Subiaco
Shire of Trayning
Town of Victoria Park
City of Vincent
City of Wanneroo
Shire of Wyalkatchem
