Mayors have made long treks to call for more support. 

Local government leaders from across Australia have gathered in Canberra, some travelling distances of up to 3,000km, to appeal to the federal government.

The annual Australian Local Government Association conference this week is addressing issues such as local funding, climate change, clean energy transitions, water security, and skills shortages.

ALGA president Linda Scott says she is confident that the government will take heed of their concerns, citing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's move to reinstate the Australian Council of Local Government, which will convene for the first time in a decade on Friday.

One key focus of the mayors' advocacy will be the increase of financial assistance grants, which provide untied funding for essential community projects. 

While the government allocated $3.1 billion for these grants in the May Budget, councils are pushing for funding to be restored to 1 per cent of Commonwealth tax revenue.

Local Government Minister Kristy McBain assured attendees that her office was reviewing the financial assistance legislation to ensure equitable distribution of funds. 

Concerns were also raised about doctor shortages, flood preparedness, and support for Pacific workers in regional areas.

More details are accessible here.