Vale Tim Johnson
With great sadness the VLGA team received news that our colleague Tim Johnson, CEO at Wellington Shire, and former General Manager at Latrobe City, passed away early this morning. Tim will be sadly missed, particularly by the councillors and staff at Wellington and his Gippsland Local Government Network colleagues. The VLGA extends our sincere condolences to Mayor Jeff Amos, councillors, Acting CEO Paul Holton and the staff team, and we acknowledge Tim’s contribution to local government in the Gippsland region.
VLGA President’s Message
Last week I wrote to Local Government Minister The Hon Jeanette Powell MP to support the campaign of the MAV and others for the Baillieu State Government to revisit the whole issue of funding for public libraries. As well as being an elected representative, as Deputy Chair of the Eastern Regional Libraries Corporation I have a keen understanding of the implications of the proposed funding cuts. In our letter, I highlighted the fact that public libraries provide important services to a large number of the most marginalised people in our communities, including in many cases to highly disadvantaged areas as noted in the SEIFA Index. Multiple studies worldwide show that public libraries have a positive impact on mental and physical health, lifelong learning and education, community connectedness, and they promote socially responsible behaviour. Public libraries save the Victorian Government millions of dollars because they are the ultimate preventative measure for a range of social issues. In their recent report Dollars, Sense and Public Libraries SGS Economics & Planning noted there are a number of key reasons to continue investment in Victoria’s public libraries, including:
* A $3.56 average rate of return for every dollar invested, including adding $120 million to Victorian Gross State Product
* The majority of Victorians are public library customers
* The value to those Victorians in services they receive is $419 per year per capita and
* Libraries have something for everyone and contribute to social well-being and inclusion
Recent funding cuts imposed by the State Government means the growing gap in operational costs to be met by local governments is unsustainable. We have therefore asked that the State Government commits to be part of a genuine co-operative partnership with local governments to ensure high quality library services, that meet community needs and aspirations, can be delivered now and into the future. We will keep members informed of any feedback from the Minister. In other developments, following an urgent meeting attended by 90 representatives from over 50 local governments on Friday, MAV President Cr Bill Macarthur said “Councils agree it’s time to move beyond the blame shifting, recognise the incredible value that libraries provide to our communities and ensure a better funding model is negotiated to meet this popular, growing service.” If you have views on this topic, feel free to let us know. In the meantime please don’t hesitate to give me a call on 0407 364 509 or drop me an email. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn, President
Keeping you up to date
New Local Government Online Knowledge Resource Now Live
A key function of Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG) is to act as a clearing house for innovation and to foster the adoption of best or better practice within the local government sector. A new addition to the scene is an on-line, interactive forum known as IKEN – the Innovation and Knowledge Exchange Network. IKEN provides a platform for local government practitioners, researchers and other stakeholders to exchange information and ideas, showcase innovation and provide useful links to resources, research opportunities, collaboration and support. Innovation and better practice can be found across local government regardless of size and ‘capacity’, from larger urban centres through to rural-remote communities. One of the main features of IKEN is its eight ‘Communities of Practice’. Each features a practitioners forum, new case studies of innovation and better practice commissioned by ACELG and its partners, resources and events, and access to full stories of leading edge and award winning projects and programs.
Once registered, local government staff and councillors will have access to these and other features to facilitate knowledge exchange within the local government sector, such as links to resources, research opportunities, collaboration and support. Site users are also able to submit policy, program or project initiatives for review or comment by peers and other experts. To get involved, visit the IKEN website here. Also launched with the new IKEN site is another web-based portal for local government called the Local Government Researchers Network. The aim of this resource is to assist councils learn about, identify and collaborate with researchers in addressing needs within their council area, region or state. The Local Government Researchers Network is accessible via the new IKEN site here.
VLGA appears before State Parliament’s Inquiry on the Human Rights Charter
Our CEO Maree McPherson, and our Human Rights Policy and Project Officer Gary Jungwirth presented evidence last week to the State Parliament’s Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee (SARC). The SARC is currently reviewing the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006. The VLGA had provided a written submission to the inquiry and the key points were highlighted to SARC in person, followed by extensive questioning of the impact of the charter on local governments and how they have reviewed their local laws, policies and strategies to ensure that they are ‘charter compliant’. The VLGA submission was generally supportive of the charter and suggested that additional social, economic and cultural rights should be included. The VLGA stated that there was a resource impact on local governments in responding to the charter and rural and regional Victoria was often excluded from meaningful participation on human rights policies due to cost, time and other resource implications. SARC will report its findings to the full Parliament in September 2011, and we will share submissions with you when these are provided by the SARC.
Alert to members: revised Sustainability Fund Priority Statement
It has come to our attention that the State Government has amended the Priority Statement for its Sustainability Fund, and is now seeking feedback about its revised statement. This is of some concern to the VLGA, as this may have the consequence of significantly reducing the amount available to local governments and communities for the myriad of projects we have undertaken to work together to adopt more sustainable practices at the municipal, community and household levels. Members may also like to know that in our submission to the wider review of Sustainability Victoria (SV), the VLGA argued strongly that more resources should flow to the waste management industry and to support local government waste management activities, which appear to be the new top priority for funds as contained in the revised Sustainability Fund Priority Statement.
We stated in our submission that we do not believe that the use of the Landfill Levy (which is the major source of Sustainability Fund resources) should be further narrowed. That is, we believe that the Levy should be capable of continuing to fund the broad and diverse range of sustainable consumption programs and activities conducted by SV, local governments and communities. So in summary, our view is that the existing level of funding must at least be retained, and that any review of funding priorities should not be seen as an ‘either or approach’. We agree that further investments in waste infrastructure and support for local governments to play their role are both important. Indeed, our members would argue that separate and increased funding sources must be found for these purposes, including for projects that manage our growing food waste and landfill challenges. But this must not occur at the expense of the successful projects local governments and communities have undertaken. The VLGA encourages all of our members who have previously been funded through the Sustainability Fund to engage with this process and to make a submission which is due on 3 August. More information can be found here.
Community choirs inspire people to find their own voice!
Creativity Australia is a not-for-profit organisation founded by social entrepreneur Tania de Jong AM that uses creative programs to enhance wellbeing, social inclusion, innovation and productivity for individuals, organisations and communities. The programs inspire people to find their voice. Creativity Australia’s acclaimed With One Voice choir social inclusion programs aim to recognise each unique voice. Whether it is in the Ashburton, Frankston, Noble Park, Dandenong, Broadmeadows, Footscray, Sunshine, St Kilda, Geelong or Melbourne communities, With One Voice builds social capital and assists migrants, the unemployed, those with disabilities and disadvantage, and general citizens and workers seeking to unlock their creative potential and make a difference. The programs are multicultural, multi-faith, inter-generational and cross all areas of society - from asylum seekers to CEOs of organisations. The program helps to develop a sense of belonging, new networks, skills and employment pathways. Participants develop leadership potential, build self esteem, communication and creative skills. They also learn how to work as a team. When many diverse voices come together as "one voice" on a regular basis, the outcomes are transformational. Individual mentoring and networking is encouraged. There are 12 programs currently operating in Victoria with another commencing soon in Frankston. Plans are underway for programs in other parts of Australia.
Experience With One Voice for yourself - check out the video gallery, website and listen to this ABC ‘Life Matters’ interview. Better still, pop along, connect with your diverse community and join in the song. You might also want to have a look to see whether your local government area could benefit from such a wonderful program! With One Voice choirs meet weekly at the above locations and more, and you can find out information on the venues here.
Social media policies – removing the hype and the fears
A number of local governments are currently adopting social media policies, and others are considering adopting them. One of the hurdles in adopting policies, and more importantly in moving towards an effective social media presence that meets community needs, is the fear of ‘entering into the unknown’. Another hurdle is the way in which some people express themselves on social media platforms, which at times can be very confronting. If your local government or community is interested in taking steps to adopt your own policies and practices, you may be interested to view the Victorian Department of Justice's social media policy video, as it addresses some of the fears and can be viewed here. You may also be interested to view the NSW Department of Education and Training’s social media policy and support resources which can be found here, including a fantastic resource for staff which can be found here.
Mapping the burbs: one person’s architectural taste … is another’s?
Whatever your view of old or new architecture, this resource will no doubt be of interest to you. Architecturally-led itineraries through a metropolis are well documented but a guided itinerary through suburban Melbourne is less common. ‘Mapping the Burbs’ is an opportunity to explore architectural sites of interest by foot or bicycle. This is a mapping project in inner, outer and regional suburbia. Nine architectural firms either located in, or with a close affinity to, suburban Melbourne and regional Victoria have designed a cycling tour of their favourite architectural sites within their neighbourhood. The designs of the maps by the nine firms incorporate intimate knowledge to promote architecture in inner and outer metropolitan areas. The architectural-based tours celebrate and reveal Victoria as seen through the eyes of some of our architects in a carefully considered itinerary. Get to know some of your local architecture in a fun, active way. These self-guided tours have been developed in partnership with Bicycle Victoria and the event is sponsored by the Yarra City Council and the Office of the Victorian Government Architect and presented by the Australian Institute of Architects, Victorian Chapter. You can download the walking and cycling maps at the following links, for Bendigo, Docklands, Mornington, Fitzroy, St Kilda, South Yarra/Prahran, Kew and Hawthorn.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
Forum on International Development Assistance in Timor-Leste
Wednesday 3 August, 6pm
VLGA, Carlton.
We are pleased to host a forum that will look at different models for providing assistance by Australian organisations, including the Australian Government, State Governments, International NGOs and Local Government Friendship groups. A copy of the forum flyer can be viewed here. The forum will also consider issues such as:
* Assessment of needs
* Formation and management of partnerships
* Monitoring and evaluation of outcomes
The guest speakers will be Philipa Venning, Director East Timor, AusAID; Wayne Gum, Programme Impact Coordinator for East Asia, Oxfam Australia; Sofie Anselmi, Volunteer Program - Australian Partners, Australian Volunteers International; Dr Prabir Majumdar, International Projects Manager, Alternative Technology Association; and the VLGA’s Vice-President and Chair of our Timor-Leste Advisory Group Richard Brown who is also Project Coordinator of the Friends of Aileu. The forum will be webcast live on the evening from 6:30pm here. You can also view the webcast any time after the forum at the same link. Refreshments will be provided. Please RVSP to Gary Jungwirth via email or telephone (03) 9349 7999.
VLGA August Leading Edge Forum - Directly elected Mayors & Deputy Mayors: to be or not to be, what are the questions?
Thursday 4 August, 6pm
VLGA, Carlton
We look forward to meeting members and friends at our August LEF for this much anticipated debate about direct election. A copy of the flyer can be found here and you can RSVP online here or telephone us on (03) 9349 7999. The LEF will also be webcast live from 7pm here.
Other events
Challenges Facing Vietnamese and Sudanese Community Members –
Free Seminar
Wednesday 27 July 2011, 10am-1.30pm
Maribyrnong City Council
Engaging Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities (CALD) in environmental sustainability can be challenging but also extremely rewarding. At this seminar we’ll share many of our learnings and insights to date from research undertaken with Vietnamese and Sudanese communities as part of the Developing Sustainable Households in Melbourne’s West project. We hope the information will assist councils and other organisations to develop strategies to encourage sustainable living practices with these communities. The Developing Sustainable Households in Melbourne’s West project was undertaken by Victoria University with the support of Maribyrnong City Council and the Western Alliance for Greenhouse Action. The project was funded through the Victorian Government Sustainability Fund, managed by Sustainability Victoria. For inquiries, please contact Rachel Soitaridis via email and to register go here.
2011 Sustainable Cities and Clean Beaches Awards evening
Friday 29 July, 6.30-11pm
Members Dining Room, Melbourne Cricket Club, Gate 2, MCG
Recognise and celebrate leaders in sustainability from urban and beach communities throughout Victoria at a gala evening at the Melbourne Cricket Club where sustainable Victorian food and beverages will be showcased in the Members Dining Room overlooking the city and MCG. Among the awards being presented on the night will be the Dame Phyllis Frost Award, Sustainable City of the Year and Clean Beach of the Year. For more information and to book online, go to the Keep Australia Beautiful web page.
Economic Development Meets Planning Conference
Thursday and Friday, 4-5 August
Caroline Springs
On behalf of the Victorian Chapter of Economic Development Australia and the Planning Institute of Australia, we are proud to announce an industry conference to those with an interest in the long term sustainability and liveability of all Victorian communities. Join us for stimulating conversations:
* Growth is inevitable, or is it?
* Investment attraction - how can planning and ED work together?
* Can planning controls influence investment?
* How can interface and regional Local Government areas secure jobs?
* How can the property development sector work more effectively with government to help create jobs for regions?
* What priorities must Victoria embrace to drive the economy?
The Conference facilitator will be Peter Couchman, with the conference including guest speakers, interviews and panel discussions with:
Don Henry (CEO Aust Conservation Foundation)
Michael Buxton (Assoc Professor, School of Social Science & Planning, RMIT)
Prue Digby (Deputy Secretary, Dept of Planning & Community Development)
Chris de Silva (Director, Mesh liveable Urban Communities)
Carl Bruhn (GM, Town Centres, Delfin Lend Lease)
and many more
To avoid disappointment book now by going here!
With great sadness the VLGA team received news that our colleague Tim Johnson, CEO at Wellington Shire, and former General Manager at Latrobe City, passed away early this morning. Tim will be sadly missed, particularly by the councillors and staff at Wellington and his Gippsland Local Government Network colleagues. The VLGA extends our sincere condolences to Mayor Jeff Amos, councillors, Acting CEO Paul Holton and the staff team, and we acknowledge Tim’s contribution to local government in the Gippsland region.
VLGA President’s Message
Last week I wrote to Local Government Minister The Hon Jeanette Powell MP to support the campaign of the MAV and others for the Baillieu State Government to revisit the whole issue of funding for public libraries. As well as being an elected representative, as Deputy Chair of the Eastern Regional Libraries Corporation I have a keen understanding of the implications of the proposed funding cuts. In our letter, I highlighted the fact that public libraries provide important services to a large number of the most marginalised people in our communities, including in many cases to highly disadvantaged areas as noted in the SEIFA Index. Multiple studies worldwide show that public libraries have a positive impact on mental and physical health, lifelong learning and education, community connectedness, and they promote socially responsible behaviour. Public libraries save the Victorian Government millions of dollars because they are the ultimate preventative measure for a range of social issues. In their recent report Dollars, Sense and Public Libraries SGS Economics & Planning noted there are a number of key reasons to continue investment in Victoria’s public libraries, including:
* A $3.56 average rate of return for every dollar invested, including adding $120 million to Victorian Gross State Product
* The majority of Victorians are public library customers
* The value to those Victorians in services they receive is $419 per year per capita and
* Libraries have something for everyone and contribute to social well-being and inclusion
Recent funding cuts imposed by the State Government means the growing gap in operational costs to be met by local governments is unsustainable. We have therefore asked that the State Government commits to be part of a genuine co-operative partnership with local governments to ensure high quality library services, that meet community needs and aspirations, can be delivered now and into the future. We will keep members informed of any feedback from the Minister. In other developments, following an urgent meeting attended by 90 representatives from over 50 local governments on Friday, MAV President Cr Bill Macarthur said “Councils agree it’s time to move beyond the blame shifting, recognise the incredible value that libraries provide to our communities and ensure a better funding model is negotiated to meet this popular, growing service.” If you have views on this topic, feel free to let us know. In the meantime please don’t hesitate to give me a call on 0407 364 509 or drop me an email. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn, President
Keeping you up to date
New Local Government Online Knowledge Resource Now Live
A key function of Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG) is to act as a clearing house for innovation and to foster the adoption of best or better practice within the local government sector. A new addition to the scene is an on-line, interactive forum known as IKEN – the Innovation and Knowledge Exchange Network. IKEN provides a platform for local government practitioners, researchers and other stakeholders to exchange information and ideas, showcase innovation and provide useful links to resources, research opportunities, collaboration and support. Innovation and better practice can be found across local government regardless of size and ‘capacity’, from larger urban centres through to rural-remote communities. One of the main features of IKEN is its eight ‘Communities of Practice’. Each features a practitioners forum, new case studies of innovation and better practice commissioned by ACELG and its partners, resources and events, and access to full stories of leading edge and award winning projects and programs.
Once registered, local government staff and councillors will have access to these and other features to facilitate knowledge exchange within the local government sector, such as links to resources, research opportunities, collaboration and support. Site users are also able to submit policy, program or project initiatives for review or comment by peers and other experts. To get involved, visit the IKEN website here. Also launched with the new IKEN site is another web-based portal for local government called the Local Government Researchers Network. The aim of this resource is to assist councils learn about, identify and collaborate with researchers in addressing needs within their council area, region or state. The Local Government Researchers Network is accessible via the new IKEN site here.
VLGA appears before State Parliament’s Inquiry on the Human Rights Charter
Our CEO Maree McPherson, and our Human Rights Policy and Project Officer Gary Jungwirth presented evidence last week to the State Parliament’s Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee (SARC). The SARC is currently reviewing the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006. The VLGA had provided a written submission to the inquiry and the key points were highlighted to SARC in person, followed by extensive questioning of the impact of the charter on local governments and how they have reviewed their local laws, policies and strategies to ensure that they are ‘charter compliant’. The VLGA submission was generally supportive of the charter and suggested that additional social, economic and cultural rights should be included. The VLGA stated that there was a resource impact on local governments in responding to the charter and rural and regional Victoria was often excluded from meaningful participation on human rights policies due to cost, time and other resource implications. SARC will report its findings to the full Parliament in September 2011, and we will share submissions with you when these are provided by the SARC.
Alert to members: revised Sustainability Fund Priority Statement
It has come to our attention that the State Government has amended the Priority Statement for its Sustainability Fund, and is now seeking feedback about its revised statement. This is of some concern to the VLGA, as this may have the consequence of significantly reducing the amount available to local governments and communities for the myriad of projects we have undertaken to work together to adopt more sustainable practices at the municipal, community and household levels. Members may also like to know that in our submission to the wider review of Sustainability Victoria (SV), the VLGA argued strongly that more resources should flow to the waste management industry and to support local government waste management activities, which appear to be the new top priority for funds as contained in the revised Sustainability Fund Priority Statement.
We stated in our submission that we do not believe that the use of the Landfill Levy (which is the major source of Sustainability Fund resources) should be further narrowed. That is, we believe that the Levy should be capable of continuing to fund the broad and diverse range of sustainable consumption programs and activities conducted by SV, local governments and communities. So in summary, our view is that the existing level of funding must at least be retained, and that any review of funding priorities should not be seen as an ‘either or approach’. We agree that further investments in waste infrastructure and support for local governments to play their role are both important. Indeed, our members would argue that separate and increased funding sources must be found for these purposes, including for projects that manage our growing food waste and landfill challenges. But this must not occur at the expense of the successful projects local governments and communities have undertaken. The VLGA encourages all of our members who have previously been funded through the Sustainability Fund to engage with this process and to make a submission which is due on 3 August. More information can be found here.
Community choirs inspire people to find their own voice!
Creativity Australia is a not-for-profit organisation founded by social entrepreneur Tania de Jong AM that uses creative programs to enhance wellbeing, social inclusion, innovation and productivity for individuals, organisations and communities. The programs inspire people to find their voice. Creativity Australia’s acclaimed With One Voice choir social inclusion programs aim to recognise each unique voice. Whether it is in the Ashburton, Frankston, Noble Park, Dandenong, Broadmeadows, Footscray, Sunshine, St Kilda, Geelong or Melbourne communities, With One Voice builds social capital and assists migrants, the unemployed, those with disabilities and disadvantage, and general citizens and workers seeking to unlock their creative potential and make a difference. The programs are multicultural, multi-faith, inter-generational and cross all areas of society - from asylum seekers to CEOs of organisations. The program helps to develop a sense of belonging, new networks, skills and employment pathways. Participants develop leadership potential, build self esteem, communication and creative skills. They also learn how to work as a team. When many diverse voices come together as "one voice" on a regular basis, the outcomes are transformational. Individual mentoring and networking is encouraged. There are 12 programs currently operating in Victoria with another commencing soon in Frankston. Plans are underway for programs in other parts of Australia.
Experience With One Voice for yourself - check out the video gallery, website and listen to this ABC ‘Life Matters’ interview. Better still, pop along, connect with your diverse community and join in the song. You might also want to have a look to see whether your local government area could benefit from such a wonderful program! With One Voice choirs meet weekly at the above locations and more, and you can find out information on the venues here.
Social media policies – removing the hype and the fears
A number of local governments are currently adopting social media policies, and others are considering adopting them. One of the hurdles in adopting policies, and more importantly in moving towards an effective social media presence that meets community needs, is the fear of ‘entering into the unknown’. Another hurdle is the way in which some people express themselves on social media platforms, which at times can be very confronting. If your local government or community is interested in taking steps to adopt your own policies and practices, you may be interested to view the Victorian Department of Justice's social media policy video, as it addresses some of the fears and can be viewed here. You may also be interested to view the NSW Department of Education and Training’s social media policy and support resources which can be found here, including a fantastic resource for staff which can be found here.
Mapping the burbs: one person’s architectural taste … is another’s?
Whatever your view of old or new architecture, this resource will no doubt be of interest to you. Architecturally-led itineraries through a metropolis are well documented but a guided itinerary through suburban Melbourne is less common. ‘Mapping the Burbs’ is an opportunity to explore architectural sites of interest by foot or bicycle. This is a mapping project in inner, outer and regional suburbia. Nine architectural firms either located in, or with a close affinity to, suburban Melbourne and regional Victoria have designed a cycling tour of their favourite architectural sites within their neighbourhood. The designs of the maps by the nine firms incorporate intimate knowledge to promote architecture in inner and outer metropolitan areas. The architectural-based tours celebrate and reveal Victoria as seen through the eyes of some of our architects in a carefully considered itinerary. Get to know some of your local architecture in a fun, active way. These self-guided tours have been developed in partnership with Bicycle Victoria and the event is sponsored by the Yarra City Council and the Office of the Victorian Government Architect and presented by the Australian Institute of Architects, Victorian Chapter. You can download the walking and cycling maps at the following links, for Bendigo, Docklands, Mornington, Fitzroy, St Kilda, South Yarra/Prahran, Kew and Hawthorn.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
Forum on International Development Assistance in Timor-Leste
Wednesday 3 August, 6pm
VLGA, Carlton.
We are pleased to host a forum that will look at different models for providing assistance by Australian organisations, including the Australian Government, State Governments, International NGOs and Local Government Friendship groups. A copy of the forum flyer can be viewed here. The forum will also consider issues such as:
* Assessment of needs
* Formation and management of partnerships
* Monitoring and evaluation of outcomes
The guest speakers will be Philipa Venning, Director East Timor, AusAID; Wayne Gum, Programme Impact Coordinator for East Asia, Oxfam Australia; Sofie Anselmi, Volunteer Program - Australian Partners, Australian Volunteers International; Dr Prabir Majumdar, International Projects Manager, Alternative Technology Association; and the VLGA’s Vice-President and Chair of our Timor-Leste Advisory Group Richard Brown who is also Project Coordinator of the Friends of Aileu. The forum will be webcast live on the evening from 6:30pm here. You can also view the webcast any time after the forum at the same link. Refreshments will be provided. Please RVSP to Gary Jungwirth via email or telephone (03) 9349 7999.
VLGA August Leading Edge Forum - Directly elected Mayors & Deputy Mayors: to be or not to be, what are the questions?
Thursday 4 August, 6pm
VLGA, Carlton
We look forward to meeting members and friends at our August LEF for this much anticipated debate about direct election. A copy of the flyer can be found here and you can RSVP online here or telephone us on (03) 9349 7999. The LEF will also be webcast live from 7pm here.
Other events
Challenges Facing Vietnamese and Sudanese Community Members –
Free Seminar
Wednesday 27 July 2011, 10am-1.30pm
Maribyrnong City Council
Engaging Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities (CALD) in environmental sustainability can be challenging but also extremely rewarding. At this seminar we’ll share many of our learnings and insights to date from research undertaken with Vietnamese and Sudanese communities as part of the Developing Sustainable Households in Melbourne’s West project. We hope the information will assist councils and other organisations to develop strategies to encourage sustainable living practices with these communities. The Developing Sustainable Households in Melbourne’s West project was undertaken by Victoria University with the support of Maribyrnong City Council and the Western Alliance for Greenhouse Action. The project was funded through the Victorian Government Sustainability Fund, managed by Sustainability Victoria. For inquiries, please contact Rachel Soitaridis via email and to register go here.
2011 Sustainable Cities and Clean Beaches Awards evening
Friday 29 July, 6.30-11pm
Members Dining Room, Melbourne Cricket Club, Gate 2, MCG
Recognise and celebrate leaders in sustainability from urban and beach communities throughout Victoria at a gala evening at the Melbourne Cricket Club where sustainable Victorian food and beverages will be showcased in the Members Dining Room overlooking the city and MCG. Among the awards being presented on the night will be the Dame Phyllis Frost Award, Sustainable City of the Year and Clean Beach of the Year. For more information and to book online, go to the Keep Australia Beautiful web page.
Economic Development Meets Planning Conference
Thursday and Friday, 4-5 August
Caroline Springs
On behalf of the Victorian Chapter of Economic Development Australia and the Planning Institute of Australia, we are proud to announce an industry conference to those with an interest in the long term sustainability and liveability of all Victorian communities. Join us for stimulating conversations:
* Growth is inevitable, or is it?
* Investment attraction - how can planning and ED work together?
* Can planning controls influence investment?
* How can interface and regional Local Government areas secure jobs?
* How can the property development sector work more effectively with government to help create jobs for regions?
* What priorities must Victoria embrace to drive the economy?
The Conference facilitator will be Peter Couchman, with the conference including guest speakers, interviews and panel discussions with:
Don Henry (CEO Aust Conservation Foundation)
Michael Buxton (Assoc Professor, School of Social Science & Planning, RMIT)
Prue Digby (Deputy Secretary, Dept of Planning & Community Development)
Chris de Silva (Director, Mesh liveable Urban Communities)
Carl Bruhn (GM, Town Centres, Delfin Lend Lease)
and many more
To avoid disappointment book now by going here!
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