ALGA leaders picked
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Gladstone Regional Council Mayor Matt Burnett has been elected President of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA).
Burnett, who has spent almost 25 years in local government, was selected during ALGA's annual general meeting in Canberra. He has served as an ALGA Board member for eight years and as Vice President for the past four years.
Following his election, Mayor Burnett expressed his commitment to advocating for Australia's 537 local governments, stressing the importance of securing additional federal funding.
“My life is in local government, and it's a tremendous privilege to accept this important leadership role to advocate on behalf of all councils across Australia,” he said.
Burnett emphasised the critical role local governments play in national issues and their potential to deliver localised solutions. However, he warned that without increased federal support, councils may struggle to maintain financial sustainability.
Burnett outlined his priorities as President, including boosting federal funding for councils, building stronger government partnerships, increasing housing, improving local infrastructure, preparing for natural disasters, and supporting the transition to renewable energy.
He also highlighted his intention to foster collaboration between all levels of government to tackle national challenges and enhance the resilience of local communities.
He paid tribute to his predecessor, Linda Scott, a former City of Sydney councillor, for her contributions to the local government sector during her four years as ALGA President.
“I sincerely thank Linda for her outstanding leadership, determination, and effective advocacy on behalf of all councils,” Burnett stated.
Councillors Karen Chappel from the Shire of Morawa, Western Australia, and Darriea Turley from Broken Hill City Council, New South Wales, were elected as ALGA’s Vice Presidents for the next two years.
In his new role, Burnett is expected to focus on bolstering the financial stability of councils, ensuring they can meet increasing demands and contribute to national initiatives effectively. ALGA says Burnett’s leadership comes at a time when local governments are being asked to take on more responsibility in addressing national issues, from housing shortages to disaster preparedness.