2003 National Agenda - Introduction

The National Agenda for Australian Local Government 2003 is the eight edition of this summary record of resolutions passed by successive National General Assemblies of Local Government.

It sets out the views of delegates on major national issues affecting councils and the communities they serve. These have been progressively developed and refined at the seven National General Assemblies of Local Government held in Canberra since 1994, and attended each year by over 700 delegates.

The National Agenda informs ongoing research and policy development by the Australian Local Government Association, in partnership with its member state and northern territory associations and with other key stakeholders.

Local government is an essential part of Australia's federal system. Councils are best placed to take a holistic view of the economic, environmental, social and cultural elements of community life. They have a key leadership role at the local and regional level.

By setting out its National Agenda, local government seeks a more productive partnership with the Commonwealth, states and territories aimed at promoting community wellbeing in its broadest sense. This must now be the central concern of all Australian governments.

The National Agenda for Australian Local Government is therefore presented as an important contribution to debate about Australia's future. I commend it to you for careful consideration.

Councillor Mike Montgomery
President
Australian Local Government Association

July 2003