Growing local government collaboration

The Tasmanian Government and the Local Government Association of Tasmania has strengthened their partnership through the signing of a new consultation agreement.

Minister for Local Government, Kerry Vincent, said the agreement establishes clear and consistent expectations for how the state and local government sector engage and consult on matters of shared relevance.

“Local government sits at the heart of our local communities and is uniquely placed to provide input on how state policies and practices impact them,” Minister Vincent said.

“This agreement provides an opportunity to strengthen the way we engage, collaborate and communicate.”

The agreement is supported by the establishment of the Minister’s Local Government Forum, alongside leaders in the sector, it will further promote the shared desire for more consistent consultation and engagement.

“The forum will meet at least twice a year, providing for discussion on significant policy and reform priorities,” Minister Vincent said.

“These are critically important agreements which we are delivering under our second 100-day plan, to strengthen how we engage, collaborate and communicate.

“State and local government have a shared commitment to serving Tasmanian communities, which must be underpinned by a genuine partnership built on mutual respect, good faith and responsibility.”

Quotes attributable to Local Government Association of Tasmania President, Mick Tucker: 

“Local government welcomes the State Government’s commitment to consultation and engagement through this partnership agreement.  It recognises the important role councils have in informing State policy and legislation given our unique role in local implementation.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the Minister on the development of a Local Government Charter to further support this partnership”.

The consultation agreement and protocol for the Minister’s Local Government Forum are available on the Department of Premier and Cabinet website.