2003 National Agenda - Infrastructure in local government

There must be a planned national approach to the provision of information technology infrastructure with full local government participation. Major upgrading of networks is required, particularly in rural and regional areas.
Proper consideration must be given to the benefits of retaining Telstra's major infrastructure systems in public ownership, and/or to other measures aimed at avoiding wasteful duplication of networks and facilities.

Local government supports efforts to assemble improved data on infrastructure availability and needs as a basis for both local and regional planning and funding programs.
National minimum standards should be developed for levels of provision and removal of physical and social infrastructure. Such standards should be enforced by appropriate regulation, and/or should be, where applicable, the basis for federal funding and taxation policies.
Local government requires access to additional sources of funding, including private sector investment, in order to meet its obligations for the proper provision and maintenance of community infrastructure. Taxation rebates and/or other incentives to private investment should apply to all forms of local government infrastructure.
Supplementary federal assistance is required to support the continued upgrading of sewerage treatment facilities to meet higher water quality standards for inland rivers and coastal waters.
Without compromising on standards or community interests, local government undertakes to employ the most efficient strategies possible to assist in appropriate infrastructure development.
Infrastructure which is the responsibility of local government will be managed in accordance with proper principles of asset management. Priorities will be set to ensure optimal use of both existing and proposed infrastructure.