Recently elected President of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA), Matt Burnett, has released a statement outlining his plans for his time in office.
Cr Burnett said that it is a privilege to accept this long-standing leadership role to advocate on behalf of Australia’s 537 councils.
“By working together and with all levels of government, I want to see councils and communities not just survive, but thrive,” Cr Burnett said.
“I’m very excited to get started and build on ALGA’s advocacy achievements. We need to work and engage with all levels of government to address the key problems facing communities in Australia.
“As you may know, I was born and raised in Gladstone, in central Queensland, and my council career has spanned nearly 25 years.
“Last week, I spoke to several national media outlets, including The Australian, to outline my advocacy agenda, which includes securing serious federal funding increases for councils – not just pocket money!
“My major focus will be on advocating for more support so councils can remain financially sustainable.”
Cr Burnett also paid tribute to former ALGA President, Linda Scott, for her significant contribution to this sector and congratulated new Vice Presidents, councillor Karen Chappel from the Shire of Morawa in Western Australia, and councillor Darriea Turley from Broken Hill City Council in New South Wales.
“I look forward to working alongside the Vice Presidents, ALGA’s Board and your councils to build stronger, vibrant and more liveable communities.
“This week, as part of my first official engagement as President, I’m excited to meet Western Australian councils at the WALGA annual conference in Perth and I thank Karen Chappel for hosting me.
“I’m also looking forward to presenting to Queensland councils at the LGAQ conference in Brisbane later this month.
“Please say hello if you see me at these events. I look forward to meeting you.”
