Local Government New South Wales (LGNSW) has released its Election Priorities for the 2023 New South Wales State Election.
LGNSW have outlined in detail the commitments that are required at state level to ensure councils can continue to provide community services.
The priorities centre on ten key themes that LGNSW is calling on all parties and candidates to commit to in the lead-up to the election.
These key themes are:
- Financial sustainability
- Resilience to natural disasters
- Roads and infrastructure
- Housing and homelessness
- Environment and the circular economy
- Intergovernmental agreement
- Stronger communities
- Rural, regional and community health
- Planning
- Skills and labour shortages
LGNSW President, Darriea Turley, said the New South Wales State Election was taking place at a critical juncture for local government.
“Local government is a key economic driver for NSW. Councils across NSW employ 55,000 people, look after $177 billion of community assets and most importantly are the beating heart of the communities they represent,” Cr Turley said.
“But despite the sector’s vital importance, councils are at breaking point due to a myriad of challenges that need urgent attention.”
Cr Turley said the financial model is not fit-for-purpose with a rate cap methodology that is detached from the economic reality. Meanwhile, years of disastrous weather events have caused extreme damage to our road network and infrastructure.
“In addition, a challenging economic outlook is causing tremendous stress on the communities we serve, leading to cost-of-living pressures and an affordable housing crisis.
“This is all occurring as the ability of councils and communities to determine what development occurs in their own area continues to diminish.”
Cr Turley said the Election Priorities detail these challenges while providing a golden opportunity for all sides of politics to partner with local government so that together we can deliver the outcomes our communities expect and deserve.
“Crucially, the priorities include measures that are not just critical to our short-term future, but also for the benefit of future generations as we face shifting demographics and a changing climate.
“We look forward to working with all parties and candidates in the lead-up to the March election to ensure these priorities come to fruition.”
