The Australian Local Government Association has officially elected its new president.
Gladstone Regional Council Mayor Matt Burnett has been welcomed to the role, bringing with him extensive experience in the local government sector, having served for 24 years, including as ALGA’s Vice President since 2020. He has been Gladstone’s Mayor since 2016 and before that its Deputy Mayor for five years.
He also represents Central Queensland on the Local Government Association of Queensland Policy Executive and is a Director on the Board.
As National President of ALGA, Mayor Burnett will represent the Australian local government sector on the national stage, such as the Australian Council of Local Governments (ACLG), the Local Government Ministers’ Forum, as well as meetings of the National Cabinet and other Federal Government forums.
The Federal Government has recognised the leadership of outgoing President Linda Scott and thanked her for her service to local government, which began in 2012.
This includes eight years at ALGA, four being in the role of National President advocating for and representing the sector, as well as service as former President of Local Government NSW and Deputy Lord Mayor and councillor for the City of Sydney.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, congratulated Mayor Burnett for his election to the National President role and said that she looks forward to continuing the government’s strong productive working relationship with ALGA and the local government sector more broadly.
“I also want to thank outgoing President Linda Scott for her tireless advocacy for local government and I wish her all the best for the future,” Minister King said.
“Local governments are a trusted partner of the Federal Government, and we will continue to work with them to drive a brighter future for Australians, no matter where they live.”
Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain, said that this is a fantastic appointment by ALGA.
“Matt Burnett is someone that has long championed the local government sector, and someone who is passionate about our shared priorities for the future,” Minister McBain said.
“Having recently spent time with Mayor Burnett at Gladstone, it’s clear to see how much he’s delivered for his local community, and I’m excited about what we’ll achieve together in his new national role.
“I’d like to thank Linda Scott, who’s been central to rebuilding the partnership between local councils and the Commonwealth, which has underpinned our funding increases for the local government sector, and the successful delivery of two Australian Council of Local Government forums.”
