From the Lord Mayor's Office
Local Government NSW Conference update
This week I participated in the Local Government NSW Conference in Tamworth, which was a great opportunity to engage with mayors and councillors from across NSW on key issues for our communities and local government.
Council submitted two motions at the conference and both were supported. The first called on Australian and NSW Governments to establish a more efficient policy, procedures and funding to improve local government response and preparation for natural disaster.
This is a key issue for Wollongong given our vulnerability to storm events and bushfire. There are a number of things with the Australian Government-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements which limit Councils ability in this regard, particularly as funding is only available for `like for like’ replacement of infrastructure damaged by a natural disaster.
There is a clear need to build back better, ensuring that infrastructure can withstand the increased storm events we’re experiencing. I’ll continue to advocate for funding that provides more sensible outcomes for the community.
The other motion Wollongong City Council submitted called for improved support for councils to address cyber security. This is a significant risk for local government and requires constant review and response to the evolving cyber security threat environment.
During the conference I was pleased to meet with mayors from Camden, Campbelltown and Wollondilly councils about establishing an economic corridor that links our Local Government Areas between Port Kembla and the new airport. There will be significant growth and opportunity in this area and we’re keen to work together to achieve positive outcomes for our respective communities.
I’ll keep you posted.
