VLGA President’s Message
The VLGA Board meets for the final time tomorrow in this Board’s term. We enter caretaker period for the Board on 24 January 2013 when nominations open for the February Board Elections. I have enjoyed working with this Board immensely and I wish to thank my Vice Presidents Cr Heinz Kreutz and Richard Brown, former councillor and Treasurer John Doull, and Board members Cr Luba Grigorovitch, Cr Collin Ross, Dr Clare Mouat, Bill Penrose and former councillor Christine Richards for their commitment, enthusiasm and excellent governance throughout this term – it has been a pleasure to serve the sector with you all. The VLGA Voters Roll closes tomorrow, and nominations for the Board elections open on 24 January. All member local governments and members received information packages some weeks ago about the closure of the roll and the elections; and we will be forwarding nomination information in January. I look forward to seeing many of you at the VLGA’s Essential Mayors’ Weekend on the Mornington Peninsula – registrations are already coming in fast so please make sure you book for this signature event in the VLGA calendar. There are details below on other training events coming up in February that will be of interest to you – Putting together your first Council Plan and Being Deputy Mayor are designed to add to your capacity and experience and give you access to other people’s perspectives. This is our final eNews bulletin for 2012, and we will be communicating with you again from mid-January. The year seems to have flown past for me, and I am sure for you too. I take this opportunity to wish you a very happy festive season. I trust you will have time with your loved ones, that you will stay safe, and that you have a chance to take some ‘time out’. From everyone at the VLGA, and from me, have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
Farewell to Ron Exiner – sort of…
After four years with the VLGA, Ron Exiner is leaving us this week as he retires from the Director Governance role. Ron has worked as a Policy Officer, and then as our Director Governance in this current stint with the VLGA. Many of you will know that Ron wrote the original Good Governance Guide, and largely developed the 2012 revised online version that was launched in October. Ron has been a source of governance and other advice for many councillors and officers within the sector and he will be missed by all of us very much. True to form, whilst Ron has ‘retired’ a few times, we have managed to retain him on contract to provide us with some specific work, including oversight of our research partnership with ACELG – so he isn’t really going far. We will take the opportunity to review our organisational structure and look at our needs on Ron’s departure. Thank you for your intellect, commitment, wit and loyalty, Ron – it’s been a joy to work with you.
Differential rates roundtable
On Thursday the VLGA hosted a roundtable discussion with member local governments to explore the sector’s concerns and help us formulate the recommendations we will put forward in the government’s consultative process on the use of differential rates. The Guidelines will be released in draft form in early 2013 and will provide the focus for the consultation over January and February. For more information contact our Director Policy Toby Archer by email.
VLGA Young Councillors Network up and running
Last week, the VLGA held an informal roundtable session with young councillors from across the State to discuss their experiences, ideas and initiatives to increase young peoples’ participation and interest in local government. The VLGA is keen to expand the network and to seek the participation and involvement of all young councillors during this term. If there are any other councillors under the age of 30 who would like to get involved in the network, contact our Senior Policy Officer Jieh-Yung Lo on 9349 7980 or via email.
Joint Select Committee on the Constitutional recognition of local government
The VLGA has commenced preparing our submission to the Joint Select Committee on Constitutional Recognition of Local Government. Submissions to the inquiry must be received by 15 February 2013.
Super Taskforce Report is out
The Superannuation Taskforce, established by the MAV to examine reforms to the Local Authorities Defined Benefits Superannuation Scheme managed by Vision Super, has released its report. Recommendations include those which the VLGA has advocated for to the Federal and State Governments, such as removing WorkCover liabilities, the 15 per cent contributions tax, and more frequent monitoring of the fund’s performance. The VLGA has also called for the return to an unfunded scheme.
2013 RGAW program funding for local governments – extension of time
Applications to the 2013 Responsible Gambling Awareness Week (RGAW) funding program have been extended until Monday 14 January 2013. The Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation (VRGF) will fund up to 12 local community initiatives offering up to $5,500 (incl. GST) to assist local governments. Email the VRGF for more information.
Listen here – 2012 Human Rights Oration
The 2012 Human Rights Oration was delivered on 11 December by Ron Merkel, QC. If you missed the event, you can listen to an audio of the Oration here.
Pokies reform
While we argued for mandatory pre-commitment technology to be introduced in Victoria in our various submissions, the VLGA acknowledges the Victorian Government is ahead of the nation with Minister Michael O'Brien’s statement last week that the Coalition “remains committed to requiring pre-commitment technology on all gaming machines in Victoria in 2015-2016”. You can read more in this article from The Age from 14 December 2012.
Tools for heatwave management
The Victorian Department of Health has published a series of communication resources and tools for display and distribution, and a telephone script template to assist staff when speaking with community members during the heat. Local government HACC workers are an important source of information and support for community members most at risk of heat-related illness and stress.
Skills and resources for home based businesses
Councillors and officers often look for good resources for their local small businesses. The Australian Government’s new HomeBiz Connect can connect businesses and start-ups to a range of low-cost and no-cost business advisory services. Register to attend one of the capital city-based events across Australia from February to May 2013.
Honouring Women in Moreland Awards 2013
This year, the City of Moreland has introduced a new award category for women 30 years of age and under. The closing date for nominations is Monday 25 February 2013. Nomination forms and guidelines can be obtained from the Council’s website or by telephoning 9240 1111.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2013 VLGA Essential Mayors’ Weekend: Leading from the start of the new council term
17-19 January 2013
Peppers Moonah Links, Fingal, Mornington Peninsula
For the past decade, the VLGA has conducted our Essential Mayors’ Weekend. Each year, mayors come together for an intensive three-day program. The 2013 dinner speakers include The Hon Jeanette Powell, Minister for Local Government, and The Hon Richard Wynne, Shadow Minister. There will also be opportunities for mayoral mentoring with experienced mayors from across the State. This is a not-to-be-missed development event, which builds connections and relationships for the mayoral term. Comments from 2012 participants include:
“I can't imagine getting much more value out of two days.”
“As usual, excellent and relevant speakers. Great interaction between speakers and Mayors.”
“It gets better every year.”
To find out more contact Member Resources Officer Sarah Colgan on 9349 7983 or via email.
‘Putting Together Your First Council Plan’
Thursday 14 February, 5.30-9pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
As the key strategic document, the Council Plan guides the direction of the council into the future. Developing the four-year Council Plan is a crucial opportunity for you as a councillor to set strategy and determine the priorities for the organisation. This training will focus on assisting councillors to maximise your input into the new Plan, how to monitor and evaluate progress, and how to work with your councillor colleagues and the administration to deliver an effective Council Plan that reflects your issues and priorities. You will hear from experienced councillors and officers, learn about successful approaches to working with your colleagues and have the opportunity to draw on the experience of others to prepare you for the Council Plan process. To register, contact the VLGA on (03) 9349 7999 or via email.
‘Being Deputy Mayor’
Thursday 21 February, 5.30-9pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
The VLGA is offering our popular development session for those serving as Deputy Mayor in 2013. There is no uniform role for Deputy Mayors, and this can be particularly challenging. The session will include time to explore your individual needs and circumstances and those of your council.
Other Events
3rd National Sustainable Food Summit
20 & 21 March 2013
Melbourne
This event attracts delegates with interests across the food supply chain, including primary producers, manufacturers, retail brands, and members of the business, government, education, public health, community and not-for-profit sectors. It is the largest and most diverse gathering of practitioners interested in the sustainability of our food system. Find out more here.
2013 Local Government Research Forum – call for papers
6 - 7 June 2013
University of Adelaide
The Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government will host the 2013 Local Government Researchers Forum. This event builds on the very successful national Local Government Researchers Forum held at UTS in December 2011 and state-based forums held in Perth and Brisbane.
10 December 2012
VLGA President’s Message
Congratulations to the winners of the 2012 VLGA John Jago Award – the City of Manningham for its Generation 2030 Community Plan. The award was presented at our Christmas function for members and friends on Thursday evening. Other finalists presented with Highly Commended certificates were the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and the City of Whitehorse for their Plan Peninsula and Audit Committee Charter Review respectively. Our external judges found it difficult to pick one winner out of these terrific entries and, of course, the real winner is good governance. Congratulations! On 3 December, Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, David Morris MP, Chair of the Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries, released the Tomorrow’s Library Stage One Report to Minister Powell. In our submission to the Stage One consultation, the VLGA emphasised the importance of providing adequate and sustainable funding for library services over the longer term. We argued that public libraries are the most commonly used community service in Victoria. Libraries provide story-times for children, English classes for migrants, computer and internet training, DVDs and CDs, linkages to adult, community and further education, and many more services. Despite the vital importance of public libraries, Victoria continues to have a low level of per capita expenditure on libraries and ongoing funding remains on an unsustainable footing. We welcome the Stage One Report and the intent expressed within it; however, we remain concerned that funding decisions by the Victorian Government may create a further gap in operational costs that local governments will be forced to meet. We are therefore appreciative of the Minister’s commitment to develop a genuinely co-operative partnership between the Victorian Government and the local government sector. We look forward to the Stage Two consultations, which will be focused on funding options. While on this topic, I extend the VLGA Board’s sincere thanks to former councillor Mandi Stewart from the Horsham Rural City Council who was the VLGA’s elected representative on the Ministerial Advisory Council until she retired from Council in October – thanks so much Mandi. Today is Human Rights Day and the start of Human Rights Week. We have been running our VLGA’s 16 Days of Action again this year to assist local governments think about how to take action from the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, or White Ribbon Day (as we know it here), on 25 November through to International Human Rights Day today. It is also the 20th anniversary of ‘The Redfern Speech’ – when former Prime Minister Paul Keating launched the International Year of the World’s Indigenous Peoples at Redfern in Sydney. You can watch the speech today here. Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
Call for EOIs – plus, Accord gets new name
On 30 November the Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Environment, Donna Petrovich MP, released the out-going Victorian Local Sustainability Advisory Committee's report Victorian Local Sustainability Accord 2010-2012 Program Achievements. The Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith has also announced a new name for the Victorian Local Sustainability Accord (of which the VLGA is a partner) – the Victorian Adaptation and Sustainability Partnership. Minister Smith is calling for Expressions of Interest for a new Ministerial Advisory Committee to oversee the Partnership including new Terms of Reference. You can see the report, Terms of Reference and Expressions of Interest documentation here.
Performance reporting in local government
The Victorian Government is developing a performance reporting framework for local governments based on recommendations by the Victorian Auditor-General’s Office and work undertaken by the Essential Services Commission. Local Government Victoria has released a Directions Paper which provides an overview of the key features of the new performance reporting framework and the process for implementation. LGV will be conducting an online discussion forum and formal submissions will be sought in April and May 2013.
Differential rates consultation commences
Last week, the Minister for Local Government announced the consultation program to develop the new ministerial guidelines for the use of differential rates. Minister Powell has established a Differential Rates Ministerial Council chaired by David Morris, Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government.
How can local governments minimise the impacts of alcohol in communities?
We know that many member councillors are concerned about alcohol use in their local communities. Here are two really interesting initiatives. febfast 2013 is an opportunity for people to take a break from alcohol after the festive season while raising funds to enable young people to recover from serious alcohol and drug-related issues. YSAS runs febfast as an annual campaign. The febfast website opens for team registrations today. Another interesting program is Hello Sunday Morning – a space for any individual to take responsibility and change their drinking behaviour.
Collaborative Procurement - EOIsLocal Government Victoria (LGV) is seeking expressions of interest from groups of local governments to undertake a collaborative procurement process. For further information visit the LGV website.
Advice services for NFPs – ACNC is launched
The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) is Australia’s first national, independent regulator for the not-for-profit sector. This follows years of advocacy for a dedicated regulator from peak bodies within the sector and key stakeholders. The ACNC is now responsible for regulating registered charities, and the Australian Government's intent is to eventually encompass the broader NFP sector as well. Advice Services are now available on 13 ACNC (13 22 62) via email.
Winners! Fire Awareness Awards 2012
The VLGA congratulates the City of Greater Shepparton and the Alpine Shire Council on their success at the 2012 Fire Awareness Awards. Shepparton picked up the Community – Aged/Disability award, and Alpine won the Government and Municipal category. For a full list of award winners go here.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2013 VLGA Essential Mayors’ Weekend: Leading from the start of the new council term
17-19 January 2013
Peppers Moonah Links, Fingal, Mornington Peninsula
For the past decade, the VLGA has conducted our Essential Mayors’ Weekend. Each year, mayors come together for an intensive three-day program. The 2013 dinner speakers include The Hon Jeanette Powell, Minister for Local Government, and The Hon Richard Wynne, Shadow Minister. There will also be opportunities for mayoral mentoring with experienced mayors from across the State. This is a not-to-be-missed development event, which builds connections and relationships for the mayoral term. Comments from 2012 participants include:
“I can't imagine getting much more value out of two days.”
“As usual, excellent and relevant speakers. Great interaction between speakers and Mayors.”
“It gets better every year.”
To find out more, contact Member Resources Officer Sarah Colgan on 9349 7983 or via email.
‘Being Deputy Mayor’
Thursday 21 February 2013, 5.30-9pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
The VLGA is offering our popular development session for those serving as Deputy Mayor in 2013. There is no uniform role for Deputy Mayors, and this can be particularly challenging. The session will include time to explore your individual needs and circumstances and those of your council. Download the flyer and registration form here.
Congratulations to the winners of the 2012 VLGA John Jago Award – the City of Manningham for its Generation 2030 Community Plan. The award was presented at our Christmas function for members and friends on Thursday evening. Other finalists presented with Highly Commended certificates were the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and the City of Whitehorse for their Plan Peninsula and Audit Committee Charter Review respectively. Our external judges found it difficult to pick one winner out of these terrific entries and, of course, the real winner is good governance. Congratulations! On 3 December, Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, David Morris MP, Chair of the Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries, released the Tomorrow’s Library Stage One Report to Minister Powell. In our submission to the Stage One consultation, the VLGA emphasised the importance of providing adequate and sustainable funding for library services over the longer term. We argued that public libraries are the most commonly used community service in Victoria. Libraries provide story-times for children, English classes for migrants, computer and internet training, DVDs and CDs, linkages to adult, community and further education, and many more services. Despite the vital importance of public libraries, Victoria continues to have a low level of per capita expenditure on libraries and ongoing funding remains on an unsustainable footing. We welcome the Stage One Report and the intent expressed within it; however, we remain concerned that funding decisions by the Victorian Government may create a further gap in operational costs that local governments will be forced to meet. We are therefore appreciative of the Minister’s commitment to develop a genuinely co-operative partnership between the Victorian Government and the local government sector. We look forward to the Stage Two consultations, which will be focused on funding options. While on this topic, I extend the VLGA Board’s sincere thanks to former councillor Mandi Stewart from the Horsham Rural City Council who was the VLGA’s elected representative on the Ministerial Advisory Council until she retired from Council in October – thanks so much Mandi. Today is Human Rights Day and the start of Human Rights Week. We have been running our VLGA’s 16 Days of Action again this year to assist local governments think about how to take action from the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, or White Ribbon Day (as we know it here), on 25 November through to International Human Rights Day today. It is also the 20th anniversary of ‘The Redfern Speech’ – when former Prime Minister Paul Keating launched the International Year of the World’s Indigenous Peoples at Redfern in Sydney. You can watch the speech today here. Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
Call for EOIs – plus, Accord gets new name
On 30 November the Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Environment, Donna Petrovich MP, released the out-going Victorian Local Sustainability Advisory Committee's report Victorian Local Sustainability Accord 2010-2012 Program Achievements. The Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith has also announced a new name for the Victorian Local Sustainability Accord (of which the VLGA is a partner) – the Victorian Adaptation and Sustainability Partnership. Minister Smith is calling for Expressions of Interest for a new Ministerial Advisory Committee to oversee the Partnership including new Terms of Reference. You can see the report, Terms of Reference and Expressions of Interest documentation here.
Performance reporting in local government
The Victorian Government is developing a performance reporting framework for local governments based on recommendations by the Victorian Auditor-General’s Office and work undertaken by the Essential Services Commission. Local Government Victoria has released a Directions Paper which provides an overview of the key features of the new performance reporting framework and the process for implementation. LGV will be conducting an online discussion forum and formal submissions will be sought in April and May 2013.
Differential rates consultation commences
Last week, the Minister for Local Government announced the consultation program to develop the new ministerial guidelines for the use of differential rates. Minister Powell has established a Differential Rates Ministerial Council chaired by David Morris, Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government.
How can local governments minimise the impacts of alcohol in communities?
We know that many member councillors are concerned about alcohol use in their local communities. Here are two really interesting initiatives. febfast 2013 is an opportunity for people to take a break from alcohol after the festive season while raising funds to enable young people to recover from serious alcohol and drug-related issues. YSAS runs febfast as an annual campaign. The febfast website opens for team registrations today. Another interesting program is Hello Sunday Morning – a space for any individual to take responsibility and change their drinking behaviour.
Collaborative Procurement - EOIsLocal Government Victoria (LGV) is seeking expressions of interest from groups of local governments to undertake a collaborative procurement process. For further information visit the LGV website.
Advice services for NFPs – ACNC is launched
The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) is Australia’s first national, independent regulator for the not-for-profit sector. This follows years of advocacy for a dedicated regulator from peak bodies within the sector and key stakeholders. The ACNC is now responsible for regulating registered charities, and the Australian Government's intent is to eventually encompass the broader NFP sector as well. Advice Services are now available on 13 ACNC (13 22 62) via email.
Winners! Fire Awareness Awards 2012
The VLGA congratulates the City of Greater Shepparton and the Alpine Shire Council on their success at the 2012 Fire Awareness Awards. Shepparton picked up the Community – Aged/Disability award, and Alpine won the Government and Municipal category. For a full list of award winners go here.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2013 VLGA Essential Mayors’ Weekend: Leading from the start of the new council term
17-19 January 2013
Peppers Moonah Links, Fingal, Mornington Peninsula
For the past decade, the VLGA has conducted our Essential Mayors’ Weekend. Each year, mayors come together for an intensive three-day program. The 2013 dinner speakers include The Hon Jeanette Powell, Minister for Local Government, and The Hon Richard Wynne, Shadow Minister. There will also be opportunities for mayoral mentoring with experienced mayors from across the State. This is a not-to-be-missed development event, which builds connections and relationships for the mayoral term. Comments from 2012 participants include:
“I can't imagine getting much more value out of two days.”
“As usual, excellent and relevant speakers. Great interaction between speakers and Mayors.”
“It gets better every year.”
To find out more, contact Member Resources Officer Sarah Colgan on 9349 7983 or via email.
‘Being Deputy Mayor’
Thursday 21 February 2013, 5.30-9pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
The VLGA is offering our popular development session for those serving as Deputy Mayor in 2013. There is no uniform role for Deputy Mayors, and this can be particularly challenging. The session will include time to explore your individual needs and circumstances and those of your council. Download the flyer and registration form here.
3 December 2012
VLGA President’s Message
On behalf of everyone at the VLGA, I congratulate the inductees to the 2012 Victorian Indigenous Honour Roll and their families. The inductees were named at a function in Melbourne on Thursday night by the Premier of Victoria, The Hon Ted Baillieu, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, The Hon Jeanette Powell. The Premier introduced the Honour Roll in February this year, honouring an election commitment, and inducted twenty outstanding Indigenous Victorians to the nation’s first-ever Indigenous Honour Roll. The new inductees join the inaugural people on this significant and historical record. Last Tuesday I joined current and past councillors and officers at an ALGWA Victoria luncheon at the Camberwell Civic Centre for their annual bursary award for a woman employee in local government. The 2012 winner is Samantha Dureau, Team Leader – Community and Corporate Planning, City of Whittlesea. Samantha is undertaking a Master of Business Administration at LaTrobe University. The ALGWA study award is awarded annually in memory of Marie Wallace OAM JP. Congratulations Samantha! Congratulations also to Moyne Shire Council and the people of Port Fairy – the town has been awarded the prestigious international LivCom award for the most liveable town with a population under 20,000. The United Nations-endorsed award was given to Moyne Shire’s Mayor Jim Doukas, Chief Executive David Madden and community representative Margaret Watt last Monday. Today is International Day of People with a Disability. I know many of you will be attending events in your communities to acknowledge the day. Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. I have taken a number of calls recently from new councillors with queries about how things work, and I am happy to help out or to refer you to a VLGA staff member for assistance if needed. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
Pokies audio technology banned
The VLGA welcomes the Victorian Gaming Minister’s announcement yesterday that isolation audio technology on gaming machines has been banned for the next decade. The Hon Michael O’Brien said that the ban on earphones attached to pokies was made for the next ten years because they isolate gamblers and undermine responsible gambling practices. Other news of interest to VLGA members is that, according to a report on ABC radio today, there has been a $62 million drop in poker machine spending in Victoria, following a ban on ATMs in gaming venues. The VLGA has supported both of these initiatives in our past submissions to the Victorian Government.
Challenges and opportunities of managing urban growth
Last Wednesday the VLGA hosted Felix Dodds at a conversation roundtable with representatives from growth area local governments. Felix is the author of several books, his latest being Only One Earth, and he discussed the challenges facing growth area local governments and the ways in which they might work collectively on various possible solutions as a strategic alliance. People interested in hearing more about the session or joining a discussion list can contact Senior Policy Officer Jieh-Yung Lo by email. Members in growth areas might also like to read this excellent opinion piece which featured in the National Times newspaper, by the CEO of Whittlesea, David Turnbull.
What can my Council do for the 16 days of action?
Today is Day 9 in the VLGA’s 16 Days of Action, from the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, or White Ribbon Day (as we know it here), on 25 November through to International Human Rights Day on 10 December. To find out more on how your local government can take action for the days ahead, visit our website.
Victorian Government joins national push on violence
The VLGA supports the Victorian Coalition Government’s announcement last Thursday of their intent to join the Commonwealth and other states and territories in funding a new National Centre of Excellence to reduce violence against women. Minister for Women’s Affairs Mary Wooldridge advises that the Centre will be operating from 1 January 2013, and will develop a national research agenda to improve policy and service delivery in the prevention of violence against women across Australia. The Victorian Coalition Government will contribute more than $1 million over three years towards the Centre.
New state-wide smoking laws being debated
The Victorian Greens’ MP Colleen Hartland introduced a Private Members Bill to Parliament last week for state-wide bans on smoking in outdoor dining areas. A number of local governments in Victoria have taken initiatives to introduce local laws to support various outdoor smoking bans. This Bill is designed to bring Victoria in line with existing and new smoking laws currently operating in other states and territories. Watch this space.
Census on the Australian local government workforce
The Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG) has co-ordinated a pilot local government workforce census with eight local governments across the country, with the full Australian Local Government Workforce and Employment Census for all 565 councils commencing last week. The census is the most ambitious local government data collection exercise undertaken so far in Australia. The opportunities offered by the collection of a national local government workforce dataset are significant, and will underpin a range of employment strategies nationally, as well forming the basis for funding for local government based training.
Advancing local government leadership
Ron Exiner, the VLGA’s Director Governance attended the ACELG Advancing Local Government Leadership Roundtable on 28 November. ACELG is looking for coordination and cross-fertilisation amongst the various leadership programs and courses that are developing in and around the sector. The VLGA’s interest is ensuring that the content is informed by the nature of the local government sector, how it does and should operate, and ensuring that there are programs that meet councillors’ needs as well as those of officers.
Funding for Neighbourhood Houses announced
On Wednesday, Minister for Community Services Mary Wooldridge announced that Neighbourhood Houses across Victoria will receive almost $700,000 in funding from the Victorian Coalition Government. Forty-five Neighbourhood Houses and Neighbourhood House Networks will receive funding through the Creating Modernised and Inclusive Neighbourhood Houses program.
New Regional Competitiveness Index on the way
The Regional Australia Institute (RAI) is undertaking a comprehensive assessment of the global competitiveness of Australia's regions. The assessment will consider the competitiveness of regions in terms of governance, services, infrastructure, people and the economy. RAI is now seeking advice and input from users of this work as we move towards an initial release of the index in early 2013. Please take some time to review the document and send RAI any input you might have via email.
App for livable housing
On 27 November, Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Jan McLucas, launched the Livable Housing Design Guidelines with a new iPhone and iPad application to be developed with the help of $60,000 in Australian Government funding. The Livable Housing Design Guidelines help guide the residential and building industry and all levels of government to build homes that are easier to enter, safer to move around in and more cost effective to adapt when life circumstances change. Under these guidelines there are three performance ratings: Silver, Gold and Platinum, with Platinum the highest level. For further information on Livable Housing Australia and the Livable Housing Design Guidelines go here.
Victorian Women’s Governance Scholarships – applications open
Minister Wooldridge has announced that applications for the Victorian Women's Governance Scholarships are now open. In a joint initiative of the Victorian Government and the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD), 34 scholarships for women will be offered, providing the opportunity to attend the Company Directors Course. Scholarship recipients also receive complimentary twelve months membership of the AICD. Only women who are current board members of not-for-profit organisations that are in receipt of Victorian State Government funding will be considered. Applications close at 5pm on Friday 11 January 2013.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2012 VLGA Members’ Christmas ‘thank you and celebration’
Thursday 6 December, 6-8pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
Our final VLGA gathering for 2012 will be held on Thursday 6 December. Members are invited to join us for our end-of-year thank you and celebration with local government, community and government colleagues. We will also present the 2012 John Jago Award for Good Governance. Register online today!
2013 VLGA Essential Mayors’ Weekend: Leading from the start of the new council term
17-19 January 2013
Peppers Moonah Links, Fingal, Mornington Peninsula
For the past decade, the VLGA has conducted our Essential Mayors’ Weekend. Each year, mayors come together for an intensive three-day program. The 2013 dinner speakers include The Hon Jeanette Powell, Minister for Local Government, and The Hon Richard Wynne, Shadow Minister. There will also be opportunities for mayoral mentoring with experienced mayors from across the State. This is a not-to-be-missed development event, which builds connections and relationships for the mayoral term. The full program and registration details will follow very soon. Comments from 2012 participants include:
“I can't imagine getting much more value out of two days.”
“As usual, excellent and relevant speakers. Great interaction between speakers and Mayors.”
“It gets better every year.”
To find out more contact Member Resources Officer Sarah Colgan on 9349 7983 or via email.
Employment Opportunity
Victorian Local Sustainability Accord – Policy Officer
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is recruiting a Policy Officer from local government to work with the DSE Accord policy team for twelve months to assist the development of the next phase of the Accord. Through this opportunity the successful candidate will gain an appreciation of how State government works and how State policy is developed. DSE will gain invaluable insight from a local government perspective as it works to refocus and refresh the Accord.
Other Events
Tipping Point: Engagement beyond the fridge magnet
Metropolitan Waste Management Group conference
5-6 March 2013
MCG, Melbourne
Waste and litter management is currently at a tipping point of change. Social media, new technologies, population growth, urban expansion and the review of several key state and federal strategies and policies are pushing educators to develop new skills and explore new territory to engage and create valuable programs for their constituents. Tipping Point will feature a range of keynote speakers, case studies, workshops and a day of site tours covering the following themes in relation to waste and litter management. Registration information will be available soon.
Save the date – ALGWA Vic State Conference 2013
The ALGWA Vic branch State Conference will be held in the Shire of Strathbogie from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 May 2013. Minister for Local Government, the Hon Jeanette Powell, will open the Conference. The full program is to be confirmed and further details will be available soon. For more information contact ALGWA Vic via their website.
On behalf of everyone at the VLGA, I congratulate the inductees to the 2012 Victorian Indigenous Honour Roll and their families. The inductees were named at a function in Melbourne on Thursday night by the Premier of Victoria, The Hon Ted Baillieu, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, The Hon Jeanette Powell. The Premier introduced the Honour Roll in February this year, honouring an election commitment, and inducted twenty outstanding Indigenous Victorians to the nation’s first-ever Indigenous Honour Roll. The new inductees join the inaugural people on this significant and historical record. Last Tuesday I joined current and past councillors and officers at an ALGWA Victoria luncheon at the Camberwell Civic Centre for their annual bursary award for a woman employee in local government. The 2012 winner is Samantha Dureau, Team Leader – Community and Corporate Planning, City of Whittlesea. Samantha is undertaking a Master of Business Administration at LaTrobe University. The ALGWA study award is awarded annually in memory of Marie Wallace OAM JP. Congratulations Samantha! Congratulations also to Moyne Shire Council and the people of Port Fairy – the town has been awarded the prestigious international LivCom award for the most liveable town with a population under 20,000. The United Nations-endorsed award was given to Moyne Shire’s Mayor Jim Doukas, Chief Executive David Madden and community representative Margaret Watt last Monday. Today is International Day of People with a Disability. I know many of you will be attending events in your communities to acknowledge the day. Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. I have taken a number of calls recently from new councillors with queries about how things work, and I am happy to help out or to refer you to a VLGA staff member for assistance if needed. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
Pokies audio technology banned
The VLGA welcomes the Victorian Gaming Minister’s announcement yesterday that isolation audio technology on gaming machines has been banned for the next decade. The Hon Michael O’Brien said that the ban on earphones attached to pokies was made for the next ten years because they isolate gamblers and undermine responsible gambling practices. Other news of interest to VLGA members is that, according to a report on ABC radio today, there has been a $62 million drop in poker machine spending in Victoria, following a ban on ATMs in gaming venues. The VLGA has supported both of these initiatives in our past submissions to the Victorian Government.
Challenges and opportunities of managing urban growth
Last Wednesday the VLGA hosted Felix Dodds at a conversation roundtable with representatives from growth area local governments. Felix is the author of several books, his latest being Only One Earth, and he discussed the challenges facing growth area local governments and the ways in which they might work collectively on various possible solutions as a strategic alliance. People interested in hearing more about the session or joining a discussion list can contact Senior Policy Officer Jieh-Yung Lo by email. Members in growth areas might also like to read this excellent opinion piece which featured in the National Times newspaper, by the CEO of Whittlesea, David Turnbull.
What can my Council do for the 16 days of action?
Today is Day 9 in the VLGA’s 16 Days of Action, from the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, or White Ribbon Day (as we know it here), on 25 November through to International Human Rights Day on 10 December. To find out more on how your local government can take action for the days ahead, visit our website.
Victorian Government joins national push on violence
The VLGA supports the Victorian Coalition Government’s announcement last Thursday of their intent to join the Commonwealth and other states and territories in funding a new National Centre of Excellence to reduce violence against women. Minister for Women’s Affairs Mary Wooldridge advises that the Centre will be operating from 1 January 2013, and will develop a national research agenda to improve policy and service delivery in the prevention of violence against women across Australia. The Victorian Coalition Government will contribute more than $1 million over three years towards the Centre.
New state-wide smoking laws being debated
The Victorian Greens’ MP Colleen Hartland introduced a Private Members Bill to Parliament last week for state-wide bans on smoking in outdoor dining areas. A number of local governments in Victoria have taken initiatives to introduce local laws to support various outdoor smoking bans. This Bill is designed to bring Victoria in line with existing and new smoking laws currently operating in other states and territories. Watch this space.
Census on the Australian local government workforce
The Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG) has co-ordinated a pilot local government workforce census with eight local governments across the country, with the full Australian Local Government Workforce and Employment Census for all 565 councils commencing last week. The census is the most ambitious local government data collection exercise undertaken so far in Australia. The opportunities offered by the collection of a national local government workforce dataset are significant, and will underpin a range of employment strategies nationally, as well forming the basis for funding for local government based training.
Advancing local government leadership
Ron Exiner, the VLGA’s Director Governance attended the ACELG Advancing Local Government Leadership Roundtable on 28 November. ACELG is looking for coordination and cross-fertilisation amongst the various leadership programs and courses that are developing in and around the sector. The VLGA’s interest is ensuring that the content is informed by the nature of the local government sector, how it does and should operate, and ensuring that there are programs that meet councillors’ needs as well as those of officers.
Funding for Neighbourhood Houses announced
On Wednesday, Minister for Community Services Mary Wooldridge announced that Neighbourhood Houses across Victoria will receive almost $700,000 in funding from the Victorian Coalition Government. Forty-five Neighbourhood Houses and Neighbourhood House Networks will receive funding through the Creating Modernised and Inclusive Neighbourhood Houses program.
New Regional Competitiveness Index on the way
The Regional Australia Institute (RAI) is undertaking a comprehensive assessment of the global competitiveness of Australia's regions. The assessment will consider the competitiveness of regions in terms of governance, services, infrastructure, people and the economy. RAI is now seeking advice and input from users of this work as we move towards an initial release of the index in early 2013. Please take some time to review the document and send RAI any input you might have via email.
App for livable housing
On 27 November, Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Jan McLucas, launched the Livable Housing Design Guidelines with a new iPhone and iPad application to be developed with the help of $60,000 in Australian Government funding. The Livable Housing Design Guidelines help guide the residential and building industry and all levels of government to build homes that are easier to enter, safer to move around in and more cost effective to adapt when life circumstances change. Under these guidelines there are three performance ratings: Silver, Gold and Platinum, with Platinum the highest level. For further information on Livable Housing Australia and the Livable Housing Design Guidelines go here.
Victorian Women’s Governance Scholarships – applications open
Minister Wooldridge has announced that applications for the Victorian Women's Governance Scholarships are now open. In a joint initiative of the Victorian Government and the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD), 34 scholarships for women will be offered, providing the opportunity to attend the Company Directors Course. Scholarship recipients also receive complimentary twelve months membership of the AICD. Only women who are current board members of not-for-profit organisations that are in receipt of Victorian State Government funding will be considered. Applications close at 5pm on Friday 11 January 2013.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2012 VLGA Members’ Christmas ‘thank you and celebration’
Thursday 6 December, 6-8pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
Our final VLGA gathering for 2012 will be held on Thursday 6 December. Members are invited to join us for our end-of-year thank you and celebration with local government, community and government colleagues. We will also present the 2012 John Jago Award for Good Governance. Register online today!
2013 VLGA Essential Mayors’ Weekend: Leading from the start of the new council term
17-19 January 2013
Peppers Moonah Links, Fingal, Mornington Peninsula
For the past decade, the VLGA has conducted our Essential Mayors’ Weekend. Each year, mayors come together for an intensive three-day program. The 2013 dinner speakers include The Hon Jeanette Powell, Minister for Local Government, and The Hon Richard Wynne, Shadow Minister. There will also be opportunities for mayoral mentoring with experienced mayors from across the State. This is a not-to-be-missed development event, which builds connections and relationships for the mayoral term. The full program and registration details will follow very soon. Comments from 2012 participants include:
“I can't imagine getting much more value out of two days.”
“As usual, excellent and relevant speakers. Great interaction between speakers and Mayors.”
“It gets better every year.”
To find out more contact Member Resources Officer Sarah Colgan on 9349 7983 or via email.
Employment Opportunity
Victorian Local Sustainability Accord – Policy Officer
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is recruiting a Policy Officer from local government to work with the DSE Accord policy team for twelve months to assist the development of the next phase of the Accord. Through this opportunity the successful candidate will gain an appreciation of how State government works and how State policy is developed. DSE will gain invaluable insight from a local government perspective as it works to refocus and refresh the Accord.
Other Events
Tipping Point: Engagement beyond the fridge magnet
Metropolitan Waste Management Group conference
5-6 March 2013
MCG, Melbourne
Waste and litter management is currently at a tipping point of change. Social media, new technologies, population growth, urban expansion and the review of several key state and federal strategies and policies are pushing educators to develop new skills and explore new territory to engage and create valuable programs for their constituents. Tipping Point will feature a range of keynote speakers, case studies, workshops and a day of site tours covering the following themes in relation to waste and litter management. Registration information will be available soon.
Save the date – ALGWA Vic State Conference 2013
The ALGWA Vic branch State Conference will be held in the Shire of Strathbogie from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 May 2013. Minister for Local Government, the Hon Jeanette Powell, will open the Conference. The full program is to be confirmed and further details will be available soon. For more information contact ALGWA Vic via their website.
26 November 2012
VLGA President’s Message
I was delighted to meet so many of you at the VLGA's Essential Councillor Weekend. We reached full capacity for the event and enjoyed several Masterclasses and the pleasure of one another’s company. I observed that a number of you formed good connections with each other that will serve you well throughout the four-year council term. Now that the event is over, at the VLGA we are preparing for our next major councillor development activity, the Essential Mayors’ Weekend on 17-19 January 2013. There’s more information in our events section below. On another note, the 19 November edition of the Herald Sun carried an article entitled, ‘Home owners get a rise out of council rates’. In our letter to the editor in response we said that both the article and the editorial missed the point that councils get no extra revenue out of higher property valuations. The rates revenue that a council receives is determined through its budget process. The valuation process merely determines the amount each property will pay towards the total rates revenue. An increase in the rate paid by an individual property that is higher than the overall increase in rates revenue happens because the valuation process has determined that that property’s value has increased more relative to other properties in the municipality. The opposite occurs for properties where the value increases less. It is also necessary to remember that all valuations, whether they are done by in-house valuers or contract valuers, have to be certified by the Victorian Valuer-General. There is also an appeal process for property owners who believe that their valuations are wrong. There is a legitimate discussion to be had about how to assist ratepayers who may be asset rich and cash poor, but this discussion is not assisted by media information which leads people to believe, erroneously, that councils benefit from valuation increases. With the World Bank’s ‘Turn Up the Heat’ report warning that the planet is facing the prospect of 4?C of global warming by 2100 even if countries fulfil their current emissions pledges, the need for the local government sector to receive adequate funding for climate change adaptation and mitigation initiatives is clear. The need for increasing expenditure in these areas will undoubtedly put pressure on rate revenue. Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
What can my Council do for the 16 days of action?
Today is Day 2 in the VLGA’s 16 Days of Action, from the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, or White Ribbon Day on 25 November (as we know it here) through to International Human Rights Day on 10 December. To find out more on how your local government can take action on each of these 16 days, visit our website.
Federal reform in need of political attention?
VLGA members might have seen media reports last week about the release of results from the latest Constitutional Values Survey, conducted by Griffith University’s Centre for Governance and Public Policy. The Survey was conducted in 2008, 2010 and most recently in October 2012. According to Professor A J Brown, Australians have a higher level of concern over federal-state cooperation than citizens in either the United States (55%) or Canada (58%), when their opinion was last measured in 2010. Most interesting are the results for local government that show a rise in support for local governments as the most effective level of government (up from 20% to 30%). 37% per cent of Australians believe that local governments need more power, and Prof Brown said that “this result, combined with the fact that local government rates today…as the most effective level of government, may give some small hope for the prospects of achieving constitutional recognition of local government.” Several reform initiatives are recommended and a summary of the results of the Survey can be found here.
Why should local government be recognised in the Constitution?
Speaking of constitutional recognition, the ALGA has produced a 10-page booklet outlining why local government needs to be recognised. The Case for Change has been distributed to all local governments in Australia. The ALGA is seeking an amendment of Section 96 of the Constitution to include reference to local government, and maintains that this is the only way to protect direct federal funding for community services and infrastructure.
Women mayors and deputy mayors – some data and a record!
A large number of councillors and officers have asked the VLGA to track statistics on women mayors and deputy mayors following the recent local government elections. With nominations up by 6%, and numbers of women elected up by 17% compared to 2008, it’s not surprising that the number of women mayors has increased this year. In fact, we have an all-time record for the State of Victoria – 30 of the 78 mayors (38%) for 2012-13 are women and so far we know that 15 are deputy mayors where that position exists. The number of women mayors changes yearly and you can see more comparative annual data on our website.
Corruption watchdog closer to fruition
The new independent broad-based anti-corruption commission (IBAC) has recently taken significant steps closer to fruition in recent weeks with two Bills currently before the Victorian Parliament that give the Commission its powers and abolish the Office of Police Integrity. The IBAC will have the power to investigate allegations of wrong doing by a range of public officers, including councillors. The Whistleblower Protection Act will also be replaced. We will provide further information and advice to the sector as it comes to hand and the IBAC commences.
Urban growth and community infrastructure pressures
Last week The Age covered a report funded by government and growth area councils on Planning for Community Infrastructure in Growth Areas, which outlines specific population triggers to guide the delivery of new services. The media coverage and the report highlight the challenges of delivering community infrastructure as our city grows. Failing to rise to this challenge has the potential to undermine the much-discussed liveability of Melbourne.
Draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy – extension of time
Through feedback from stakeholders and local governments, the Department of Sustainability and Environment is providing an extension of time for stakeholders to lodge a submission to the draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy. The revised due date is Friday 7 December 2012. To discuss the VLGA’s submission or provide feedback and views, contact our Senior Policy Officer Jieh-Yung Lo on 9349 7980 or via email.
White Ribbon Day congrats to Maribyrnong
How exciting to see Friday’s edition of The Age, which profiled the great work of the Maribyrnong City Council youth services team for White Ribbon Day – you can see the hip-hop video via this link.
Congratulations to Pyrenees
Congratulations to the Pyrenees Shire Council on its success as the National Winner (councils with populations 15,000 or less) in the Heart Foundation 2012 Healthy Community Awards. Well done to all at Pyrenees on this fabulous national recognition.
Employment Opportunity
Victorian Local Sustainability Accord – Policy Officer
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is recruiting a Policy Officer from local government to work with the DSE Accord policy team for twelve months to assist the development of the next phase of the Accord. Through this opportunity the successful candidate will gain an appreciation of how State government works and how State policy is developed. DSE will gain invaluable insight from a local government perspective as it works to refocus and refresh the Accord.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2012 VLGA Members’ Christmas ‘thank you and celebration’
Thursday 6 December, 6-8pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
Our final VLGA gathering for 2012 will be held on Thursday 6 December. Members are invited to join us for our end-of-year thank you and celebration with local government, community and government colleagues. We will also present the 2012 John Jago Award for Good Governance. Register here.
2013 VLGA Essential Mayors’ Weekend: Leading from the start of the new council term
17-19 January 2013
Peppers Moonah Links, Fingal, Mornington Peninsula
For the past decade, the VLGA has conducted our Essential Mayors’ Weekend. Each year, mayors come together for an intensive three-day program. The 2013 dinner speakers include The Hon Jeanette Powell, Minister for Local Government, and The Hon Richard Wynne, Shadow Minister. There will also be opportunities for mayoral mentoring with experienced mayors from across the State. This is a not-to-be-missed development event, which builds connections and relationships for the mayoral term. The full program and registration details will follow very soon. Comments from 2012 participants include:
“I can't imagine getting much more value out of two days.”
“As usual, excellent and relevant speakers. Great interaction between speakers and Mayors.”
“It gets better every year.”
To find out more contact Member Resources Officer Sarah Colgan on 9349 7983 or via email.
Other Events
Tipping Point: Engagement beyond the fridge magnet
Metropolitan Waste Management Group conference
5-6 March 2013
MCG, Melbourne
Waste and litter management is currently at a tipping point of change. Social media, new technologies, population growth, urban expansion and the review of several key state and federal strategies and policies are pushing educators to develop new skills and explore new territory to engage and create valuable programs for their constituents. Tipping Point will feature a range of keynote speakers, case studies, workshops and a day of site tours covering the following themes in relation to waste and litter management. Registration information will be available soon.
Save the date – ALGWA Vic State Conference 2013
The ALGWA Vic branch State Conference will be held in the Shire of Strathbogie from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 May 2013. Minister for Local Government, the Hon Jeanette Powell will open the Conference. The full program is to be confirmed and further details will be available soon. For more information contact ALGWA Vic via their website.
I was delighted to meet so many of you at the VLGA's Essential Councillor Weekend. We reached full capacity for the event and enjoyed several Masterclasses and the pleasure of one another’s company. I observed that a number of you formed good connections with each other that will serve you well throughout the four-year council term. Now that the event is over, at the VLGA we are preparing for our next major councillor development activity, the Essential Mayors’ Weekend on 17-19 January 2013. There’s more information in our events section below. On another note, the 19 November edition of the Herald Sun carried an article entitled, ‘Home owners get a rise out of council rates’. In our letter to the editor in response we said that both the article and the editorial missed the point that councils get no extra revenue out of higher property valuations. The rates revenue that a council receives is determined through its budget process. The valuation process merely determines the amount each property will pay towards the total rates revenue. An increase in the rate paid by an individual property that is higher than the overall increase in rates revenue happens because the valuation process has determined that that property’s value has increased more relative to other properties in the municipality. The opposite occurs for properties where the value increases less. It is also necessary to remember that all valuations, whether they are done by in-house valuers or contract valuers, have to be certified by the Victorian Valuer-General. There is also an appeal process for property owners who believe that their valuations are wrong. There is a legitimate discussion to be had about how to assist ratepayers who may be asset rich and cash poor, but this discussion is not assisted by media information which leads people to believe, erroneously, that councils benefit from valuation increases. With the World Bank’s ‘Turn Up the Heat’ report warning that the planet is facing the prospect of 4?C of global warming by 2100 even if countries fulfil their current emissions pledges, the need for the local government sector to receive adequate funding for climate change adaptation and mitigation initiatives is clear. The need for increasing expenditure in these areas will undoubtedly put pressure on rate revenue. Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
What can my Council do for the 16 days of action?
Today is Day 2 in the VLGA’s 16 Days of Action, from the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, or White Ribbon Day on 25 November (as we know it here) through to International Human Rights Day on 10 December. To find out more on how your local government can take action on each of these 16 days, visit our website.
Federal reform in need of political attention?
VLGA members might have seen media reports last week about the release of results from the latest Constitutional Values Survey, conducted by Griffith University’s Centre for Governance and Public Policy. The Survey was conducted in 2008, 2010 and most recently in October 2012. According to Professor A J Brown, Australians have a higher level of concern over federal-state cooperation than citizens in either the United States (55%) or Canada (58%), when their opinion was last measured in 2010. Most interesting are the results for local government that show a rise in support for local governments as the most effective level of government (up from 20% to 30%). 37% per cent of Australians believe that local governments need more power, and Prof Brown said that “this result, combined with the fact that local government rates today…as the most effective level of government, may give some small hope for the prospects of achieving constitutional recognition of local government.” Several reform initiatives are recommended and a summary of the results of the Survey can be found here.
Why should local government be recognised in the Constitution?
Speaking of constitutional recognition, the ALGA has produced a 10-page booklet outlining why local government needs to be recognised. The Case for Change has been distributed to all local governments in Australia. The ALGA is seeking an amendment of Section 96 of the Constitution to include reference to local government, and maintains that this is the only way to protect direct federal funding for community services and infrastructure.
Women mayors and deputy mayors – some data and a record!
A large number of councillors and officers have asked the VLGA to track statistics on women mayors and deputy mayors following the recent local government elections. With nominations up by 6%, and numbers of women elected up by 17% compared to 2008, it’s not surprising that the number of women mayors has increased this year. In fact, we have an all-time record for the State of Victoria – 30 of the 78 mayors (38%) for 2012-13 are women and so far we know that 15 are deputy mayors where that position exists. The number of women mayors changes yearly and you can see more comparative annual data on our website.
Corruption watchdog closer to fruition
The new independent broad-based anti-corruption commission (IBAC) has recently taken significant steps closer to fruition in recent weeks with two Bills currently before the Victorian Parliament that give the Commission its powers and abolish the Office of Police Integrity. The IBAC will have the power to investigate allegations of wrong doing by a range of public officers, including councillors. The Whistleblower Protection Act will also be replaced. We will provide further information and advice to the sector as it comes to hand and the IBAC commences.
Urban growth and community infrastructure pressures
Last week The Age covered a report funded by government and growth area councils on Planning for Community Infrastructure in Growth Areas, which outlines specific population triggers to guide the delivery of new services. The media coverage and the report highlight the challenges of delivering community infrastructure as our city grows. Failing to rise to this challenge has the potential to undermine the much-discussed liveability of Melbourne.
Draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy – extension of time
Through feedback from stakeholders and local governments, the Department of Sustainability and Environment is providing an extension of time for stakeholders to lodge a submission to the draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy. The revised due date is Friday 7 December 2012. To discuss the VLGA’s submission or provide feedback and views, contact our Senior Policy Officer Jieh-Yung Lo on 9349 7980 or via email.
White Ribbon Day congrats to Maribyrnong
How exciting to see Friday’s edition of The Age, which profiled the great work of the Maribyrnong City Council youth services team for White Ribbon Day – you can see the hip-hop video via this link.
Congratulations to Pyrenees
Congratulations to the Pyrenees Shire Council on its success as the National Winner (councils with populations 15,000 or less) in the Heart Foundation 2012 Healthy Community Awards. Well done to all at Pyrenees on this fabulous national recognition.
Employment Opportunity
Victorian Local Sustainability Accord – Policy Officer
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is recruiting a Policy Officer from local government to work with the DSE Accord policy team for twelve months to assist the development of the next phase of the Accord. Through this opportunity the successful candidate will gain an appreciation of how State government works and how State policy is developed. DSE will gain invaluable insight from a local government perspective as it works to refocus and refresh the Accord.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2012 VLGA Members’ Christmas ‘thank you and celebration’
Thursday 6 December, 6-8pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
Our final VLGA gathering for 2012 will be held on Thursday 6 December. Members are invited to join us for our end-of-year thank you and celebration with local government, community and government colleagues. We will also present the 2012 John Jago Award for Good Governance. Register here.
2013 VLGA Essential Mayors’ Weekend: Leading from the start of the new council term
17-19 January 2013
Peppers Moonah Links, Fingal, Mornington Peninsula
For the past decade, the VLGA has conducted our Essential Mayors’ Weekend. Each year, mayors come together for an intensive three-day program. The 2013 dinner speakers include The Hon Jeanette Powell, Minister for Local Government, and The Hon Richard Wynne, Shadow Minister. There will also be opportunities for mayoral mentoring with experienced mayors from across the State. This is a not-to-be-missed development event, which builds connections and relationships for the mayoral term. The full program and registration details will follow very soon. Comments from 2012 participants include:
“I can't imagine getting much more value out of two days.”
“As usual, excellent and relevant speakers. Great interaction between speakers and Mayors.”
“It gets better every year.”
To find out more contact Member Resources Officer Sarah Colgan on 9349 7983 or via email.
Other Events
Tipping Point: Engagement beyond the fridge magnet
Metropolitan Waste Management Group conference
5-6 March 2013
MCG, Melbourne
Waste and litter management is currently at a tipping point of change. Social media, new technologies, population growth, urban expansion and the review of several key state and federal strategies and policies are pushing educators to develop new skills and explore new territory to engage and create valuable programs for their constituents. Tipping Point will feature a range of keynote speakers, case studies, workshops and a day of site tours covering the following themes in relation to waste and litter management. Registration information will be available soon.
Save the date – ALGWA Vic State Conference 2013
The ALGWA Vic branch State Conference will be held in the Shire of Strathbogie from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 May 2013. Minister for Local Government, the Hon Jeanette Powell will open the Conference. The full program is to be confirmed and further details will be available soon. For more information contact ALGWA Vic via their website.
19 November 2012
VLGA President’s Message
With the passing of the Local Government Legislative Amendment (Miscellaneous) Act 2012, the Minister for Local Government now has the power to set guidelines on the use of differential rates and to prohibit differential rates inconsistent with the guidelines. This represents a significant change to the process for implementing differential rates. A background paper has been prepared by Local Government Victoria to provide an overview of the differential rating system and the issues to be canvassed in the consultations on the guidelines. Guidelines will be released in draft form in late 2012 and will provide the focus for the consultation over January and February 2013. I have spoken to many councillors, council officers and community members concerned about the new ministerial powers, particularly in relation to differential rates developed with communities to tackle social issues. We will be convening a roundtable discussion with member councils in December to explore the sector’s concerns and help us formulate the recommendations we will put forward in the government’s consultative process. I look forward to seeing many of you later this week at Torquay at the VLGA's Essential Councillor Weekend which commences on Friday. We have reached capacity for the event and I'm delighted that so many first-time councillors have registered to join us. Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
Victorian Government considering review of the Local Government Act?
As always, this year’s local government elections have sparked interest in issues such as campaign practices, donations disclosure and voter engagement. Recent media comments suggest that the Minister for Local Government is considering whether to conduct a review of the Local Government Act. The VLGA has consistently argued that the Act requires a comprehensive review, and that there is a need for a broader examination of issues across the sector. We think that it is crucial for any review to maximise the involvement of local governments and communities. Government cannot just rely on regulation to achieve a robust democratic culture. The VLGA notes that, in many campaigns seen as ‘dirty’ or difficult, voters have seen through negative messages that played the person and not the policies. The best way to prevent negative tactics and a lack of transparency in local government elections is for voters to be informed and engaged with the process. Councillors, community leaders, the media and individuals all have important roles to play. We will be communicating more with members about the issues we need to take to the Minister for any proposed review.
VLGA submission to the draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy
The Victorian Government is currently seeking feedback on its draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy. This draft draws upon input, priorities and issues identified through consultation with industry, government and community in May this year. Submissions are due by Friday 23 November. The VLGA will be providing a follow up submission to our initial submission. To discuss the VLGA’s submission or provide feedback and views, contact our Senior Policy Officer Jieh-Yung Lo on 9349 7980 or via email.
2013 RGAW program funding for local governments
As part of Responsible Gambling Awareness Week (RGAW), the Victorian Government through the newly established Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation (VRGF) is providing an opportunity for local governments to plan and host a community event to share research, knowledge or trends in responsible gambling. The VRGF will fund up to 12 local community initiatives offering up to $5,500 (incl. GST) to assist local councils. Submissions close at 5pm on Friday 14 December. Email the VRGF for more information.
VLGA congratulates new ALGA President
Congratulations to Felicity-ann Lewis, newly elected President of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) for the next two years, following the Annual General Meeting in Hobart. Mayor of Marion in South Australia, Felicity-ann Lewis has been serving in the President's role since the previous ALGA President, and former Mayor of North Sydney, Genia McCaffery, retired from local government in September this year. Mayor Lewis has been a member of the ALGA Board since 2009 and served as ALGA Vice President between 2010 and 2012. She is the City of Marion's first woman mayor and its longest serving mayor at more than ten years. On Friday, the ALGA launched the National State of the Assets Report 2012, at the National Local Roads and Transport Congress in Hobart. The report was prepared to assess how local infrastructure is faring, whether community needs are being met and if current levels of expenditure are adequate. The National Assets Report builds on research commissioned by ALGA in 2010 which indicated that current levels of federal expenditure would need to increase by an average of $1.2 billion per year to avoid deterioration of the local road network. In 2006, the results of a study undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers found that the potential aggregate backlog for all 560 Australian local governments was approximately $14.6 billion, with an annual sustainable funding gap of $1.1 billion. In the latest study to inform the National Assets Report, 55 local governments contributed data about the quality, functionality and capacity of roads and bridges infrastructure.
'It Starts with Us' – remembering the Redfern Speech
On 10 December 1992, Prime Minister Paul Keating gave a momentous speech in Redfern Park that acknowledged the impact of European settlement on Indigenous Australians. As we come up to the 20th anniversary of the Redfern Speech, Reconciliation Victoria is encouraging all Victorians to watch the speech on their website and talk about what it means to be Australian in 2012. Organise your friends and colleagues to watch the speech together on Monday 10 December 2012.
VLGA hosts Timor-Leste Ambassador to Australia
Last Thursday, the VLGA welcomed the Timor-Leste Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Abel Guterres, where he met with representatives of twelve Friendship Groups around Victoria. HE Abel is a member of the VLGA and we were honoured to host him again to have conversations with our networks. Thanks to Rae Kingsbury of the Australia Timor-Leste Friendship Network for assisting us with this opportunity whilst HE Abel was in Melbourne.
Nominations open for 2013 Victorian Women's Honour Roll
Each year, the Victorian Honour Roll acknowledges women from across the State who have made a lasting impact on their communities. Minister for Women's Affairs, The Hon Mary Wooldridge, is encouraging people to nominate women who have made a significant contribution locally, nationally or internationally. The 2013 Victorian Honour Roll of Women builds on the success of previous Honour Rolls, reflecting the diversity of Victorian women and their skills, strength and personal determination. Almost 500 women have been inducted on the Honour Roll since it began in 2001 as part of Victoria’s Centenary of Federation celebrations. Nominations are open until Friday 7 December 2012 and application forms and guidelines can be found online.
2012 Fire Awareness Awards finalists announced
After a record number of applications, finalists for the 2012 Fire Awareness Awards have been selected. This year has produced 186 entries, coming in from all over Victoria, as well as NSW and Queensland. The awards presentation will take place on 3 December at the RACV City Club in Melbourne. Several VLGA member local governments have been named as finalists, and we congratulate Alpine Shire Council, Monash City Council, and Greater Shepparton City Council on their applications – good luck to all of you!
Good luck Boroondara
While on the theme of awards, the VLGA wishes the City of Boroondara the very best of luck at the Australian Sustainable Cities Awards 2012 on 29 November in Kogarah, NSW. Boroondara is the Victorian finalist and we have our fingers crossed for you.
YWCA promotes 2012 SHE Speaks survey
YWCA Victoria, along with YWCAs from around the country, is promoting the 2012 SHE Speaks Survey, which will listen to the voices of thousands of girls and young women aged 15-30. The 2012 SHE Speaks Survey canvasses girls and young women on topics such as their leadership aspirations, strategies to overcome barriers to support women’s leadership, discrimination, equality, feminism and role models. SHE Speaks results will be used by YWCA and other youth sector agencies to better understand young women’s attitudes and aspirations, and their concerns and ideas for the future. This project is supported by Flinders University, SA Community Health Research Unit, and has been commissioned by YWCA Australia.
Employment vacancy
Member Relations Officer
The VLGA is currently seeking applications for the position of Member Relations Officer, to commence in 2013. The role is responsible for VLGA membership and communications-related activity and requires flexibility, initiative and the ability to work within competing demands in a complex political environment. For application details, and to download a position description visit our website.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2012 VLGA Members’ Christmas ‘thank you and celebration’
Thursday 6 December, 6-8pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
Our final VLGA gathering for 2012 will be held on Thursday 6 December. Members are invited to join us for our end-of-year thank you and celebration with local government, community and government colleagues. We will also present the 2012 John Jago Award for Good Governance. Register here.
Other Events
ALGWA (Vic) networking lunch
Tuesday 27 November, 12-2.30pm
Camberwell Civic Centre, Camberwell Rd, Camberwell
The Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) invites you to a networking lunch, including the presentation of the annual bursary award to a council officer. It is an ideal opportunity to meet new and existing councillors and officers. The cost is $50 for members, $60 for non-members. Please contact Hon Secretary Helen Harris via email to RSVP by 22 November 2012.
VEOHRC Local Government forums
November-December
Melbourne, Wangaratta, Ararat, Mildura
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) is holding a series of human rights forums for local government in November and December. Local governments have asked for more support, training and information to help in their efforts to implement the Charter so these forums are geared towards developing skills to put human rights into practice in governance and service delivery roles. The four forums will be held on:
* 23 November in Melbourne
* 28 November in Wangaratta
* 5 December in Ararat
* 12 December in Mildura
Sustainability Accord Showcase
30 November
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is holding an event to showcase recently completed Victorian Local Sustainability Accord (Accord) funded projects, and provide an opportunity to build knowledge and foster connectivity across sustainability and climate change driven projects. The event will feature presentations and displays hosted by those directly involved with Accord projects. Local and State Government staff, and industry professionals from across Victoria are invited to attend. In addition, a live stream of presentations and Q&A sessions will be available. For more information about the live stream and to register for the event, go here.
19th Maurice Blackburn Oration – An issue of equity: Is it fair and just that there are 230,000 second class citizens in the NT?
Presented by Prof Clare Martin
Wednesday 5 December, 7pm
Brunswick Town Hall, 233 Sydney Road, Brunswick
Hosted by the Moreland City Council, Prof Clare Martin will give the 2012 Maurice Blackburn Oration. Prof Martin is the Former Labor Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, former CEO of the Australian Council of Social Service and currently Professorial Fellow at Charles Darwin University. This is a free event and all are welcome. RSVP is required to Jo Graham by phone 9240 2373 or email.
With the passing of the Local Government Legislative Amendment (Miscellaneous) Act 2012, the Minister for Local Government now has the power to set guidelines on the use of differential rates and to prohibit differential rates inconsistent with the guidelines. This represents a significant change to the process for implementing differential rates. A background paper has been prepared by Local Government Victoria to provide an overview of the differential rating system and the issues to be canvassed in the consultations on the guidelines. Guidelines will be released in draft form in late 2012 and will provide the focus for the consultation over January and February 2013. I have spoken to many councillors, council officers and community members concerned about the new ministerial powers, particularly in relation to differential rates developed with communities to tackle social issues. We will be convening a roundtable discussion with member councils in December to explore the sector’s concerns and help us formulate the recommendations we will put forward in the government’s consultative process. I look forward to seeing many of you later this week at Torquay at the VLGA's Essential Councillor Weekend which commences on Friday. We have reached capacity for the event and I'm delighted that so many first-time councillors have registered to join us. Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
Victorian Government considering review of the Local Government Act?
As always, this year’s local government elections have sparked interest in issues such as campaign practices, donations disclosure and voter engagement. Recent media comments suggest that the Minister for Local Government is considering whether to conduct a review of the Local Government Act. The VLGA has consistently argued that the Act requires a comprehensive review, and that there is a need for a broader examination of issues across the sector. We think that it is crucial for any review to maximise the involvement of local governments and communities. Government cannot just rely on regulation to achieve a robust democratic culture. The VLGA notes that, in many campaigns seen as ‘dirty’ or difficult, voters have seen through negative messages that played the person and not the policies. The best way to prevent negative tactics and a lack of transparency in local government elections is for voters to be informed and engaged with the process. Councillors, community leaders, the media and individuals all have important roles to play. We will be communicating more with members about the issues we need to take to the Minister for any proposed review.
VLGA submission to the draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy
The Victorian Government is currently seeking feedback on its draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy. This draft draws upon input, priorities and issues identified through consultation with industry, government and community in May this year. Submissions are due by Friday 23 November. The VLGA will be providing a follow up submission to our initial submission. To discuss the VLGA’s submission or provide feedback and views, contact our Senior Policy Officer Jieh-Yung Lo on 9349 7980 or via email.
2013 RGAW program funding for local governments
As part of Responsible Gambling Awareness Week (RGAW), the Victorian Government through the newly established Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation (VRGF) is providing an opportunity for local governments to plan and host a community event to share research, knowledge or trends in responsible gambling. The VRGF will fund up to 12 local community initiatives offering up to $5,500 (incl. GST) to assist local councils. Submissions close at 5pm on Friday 14 December. Email the VRGF for more information.
VLGA congratulates new ALGA President
Congratulations to Felicity-ann Lewis, newly elected President of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) for the next two years, following the Annual General Meeting in Hobart. Mayor of Marion in South Australia, Felicity-ann Lewis has been serving in the President's role since the previous ALGA President, and former Mayor of North Sydney, Genia McCaffery, retired from local government in September this year. Mayor Lewis has been a member of the ALGA Board since 2009 and served as ALGA Vice President between 2010 and 2012. She is the City of Marion's first woman mayor and its longest serving mayor at more than ten years. On Friday, the ALGA launched the National State of the Assets Report 2012, at the National Local Roads and Transport Congress in Hobart. The report was prepared to assess how local infrastructure is faring, whether community needs are being met and if current levels of expenditure are adequate. The National Assets Report builds on research commissioned by ALGA in 2010 which indicated that current levels of federal expenditure would need to increase by an average of $1.2 billion per year to avoid deterioration of the local road network. In 2006, the results of a study undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers found that the potential aggregate backlog for all 560 Australian local governments was approximately $14.6 billion, with an annual sustainable funding gap of $1.1 billion. In the latest study to inform the National Assets Report, 55 local governments contributed data about the quality, functionality and capacity of roads and bridges infrastructure.
'It Starts with Us' – remembering the Redfern Speech
On 10 December 1992, Prime Minister Paul Keating gave a momentous speech in Redfern Park that acknowledged the impact of European settlement on Indigenous Australians. As we come up to the 20th anniversary of the Redfern Speech, Reconciliation Victoria is encouraging all Victorians to watch the speech on their website and talk about what it means to be Australian in 2012. Organise your friends and colleagues to watch the speech together on Monday 10 December 2012.
VLGA hosts Timor-Leste Ambassador to Australia
Last Thursday, the VLGA welcomed the Timor-Leste Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Abel Guterres, where he met with representatives of twelve Friendship Groups around Victoria. HE Abel is a member of the VLGA and we were honoured to host him again to have conversations with our networks. Thanks to Rae Kingsbury of the Australia Timor-Leste Friendship Network for assisting us with this opportunity whilst HE Abel was in Melbourne.
Nominations open for 2013 Victorian Women's Honour Roll
Each year, the Victorian Honour Roll acknowledges women from across the State who have made a lasting impact on their communities. Minister for Women's Affairs, The Hon Mary Wooldridge, is encouraging people to nominate women who have made a significant contribution locally, nationally or internationally. The 2013 Victorian Honour Roll of Women builds on the success of previous Honour Rolls, reflecting the diversity of Victorian women and their skills, strength and personal determination. Almost 500 women have been inducted on the Honour Roll since it began in 2001 as part of Victoria’s Centenary of Federation celebrations. Nominations are open until Friday 7 December 2012 and application forms and guidelines can be found online.
2012 Fire Awareness Awards finalists announced
After a record number of applications, finalists for the 2012 Fire Awareness Awards have been selected. This year has produced 186 entries, coming in from all over Victoria, as well as NSW and Queensland. The awards presentation will take place on 3 December at the RACV City Club in Melbourne. Several VLGA member local governments have been named as finalists, and we congratulate Alpine Shire Council, Monash City Council, and Greater Shepparton City Council on their applications – good luck to all of you!
Good luck Boroondara
While on the theme of awards, the VLGA wishes the City of Boroondara the very best of luck at the Australian Sustainable Cities Awards 2012 on 29 November in Kogarah, NSW. Boroondara is the Victorian finalist and we have our fingers crossed for you.
YWCA promotes 2012 SHE Speaks survey
YWCA Victoria, along with YWCAs from around the country, is promoting the 2012 SHE Speaks Survey, which will listen to the voices of thousands of girls and young women aged 15-30. The 2012 SHE Speaks Survey canvasses girls and young women on topics such as their leadership aspirations, strategies to overcome barriers to support women’s leadership, discrimination, equality, feminism and role models. SHE Speaks results will be used by YWCA and other youth sector agencies to better understand young women’s attitudes and aspirations, and their concerns and ideas for the future. This project is supported by Flinders University, SA Community Health Research Unit, and has been commissioned by YWCA Australia.
Employment vacancy
Member Relations Officer
The VLGA is currently seeking applications for the position of Member Relations Officer, to commence in 2013. The role is responsible for VLGA membership and communications-related activity and requires flexibility, initiative and the ability to work within competing demands in a complex political environment. For application details, and to download a position description visit our website.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2012 VLGA Members’ Christmas ‘thank you and celebration’
Thursday 6 December, 6-8pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
Our final VLGA gathering for 2012 will be held on Thursday 6 December. Members are invited to join us for our end-of-year thank you and celebration with local government, community and government colleagues. We will also present the 2012 John Jago Award for Good Governance. Register here.
Other Events
ALGWA (Vic) networking lunch
Tuesday 27 November, 12-2.30pm
Camberwell Civic Centre, Camberwell Rd, Camberwell
The Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) invites you to a networking lunch, including the presentation of the annual bursary award to a council officer. It is an ideal opportunity to meet new and existing councillors and officers. The cost is $50 for members, $60 for non-members. Please contact Hon Secretary Helen Harris via email to RSVP by 22 November 2012.
VEOHRC Local Government forums
November-December
Melbourne, Wangaratta, Ararat, Mildura
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) is holding a series of human rights forums for local government in November and December. Local governments have asked for more support, training and information to help in their efforts to implement the Charter so these forums are geared towards developing skills to put human rights into practice in governance and service delivery roles. The four forums will be held on:
* 23 November in Melbourne
* 28 November in Wangaratta
* 5 December in Ararat
* 12 December in Mildura
Sustainability Accord Showcase
30 November
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is holding an event to showcase recently completed Victorian Local Sustainability Accord (Accord) funded projects, and provide an opportunity to build knowledge and foster connectivity across sustainability and climate change driven projects. The event will feature presentations and displays hosted by those directly involved with Accord projects. Local and State Government staff, and industry professionals from across Victoria are invited to attend. In addition, a live stream of presentations and Q&A sessions will be available. For more information about the live stream and to register for the event, go here.
19th Maurice Blackburn Oration – An issue of equity: Is it fair and just that there are 230,000 second class citizens in the NT?
Presented by Prof Clare Martin
Wednesday 5 December, 7pm
Brunswick Town Hall, 233 Sydney Road, Brunswick
Hosted by the Moreland City Council, Prof Clare Martin will give the 2012 Maurice Blackburn Oration. Prof Martin is the Former Labor Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, former CEO of the Australian Council of Social Service and currently Professorial Fellow at Charles Darwin University. This is a free event and all are welcome. RSVP is required to Jo Graham by phone 9240 2373 or email.
12 November 2012
VLGA President’s Message
In the 7 November 2012 edition of The Financial Review I noted a story that a number of local governments in New South Wales will recoup almost $30 million in funds lost after they put their reserves into several high-risk investment products in 2006 and 2007. According to an article in the latest ALGA news, the local governments were “assured that the investments were iron clad because the products were given a AAA credit rating…. handed out by credit ratings agency Standard & Poor's.” Federal Court Justice Jayne Jagot ruled that Local Government Financial Services - a financial intermediary owned by Local Government Super; ABN Amro - the investment bank that created the derivatives, and Standard & Poor's were negligent and had misled the local governments to invest in the derivatives. The majority of local governments affected were smaller rural shires. This is an interesting case study from another jurisdiction that highlights the potential vulnerability of smaller rural local governments who are often faced with significant infrastructure replacement and development costs, and who need to be wary of investment schemes that seem almost ‘too good to be true’. Don’t forget to submit your registration for the Essential Councillor Weekend this week – we are almost at full capacity! Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
2012 Local Government Elections – VEC calls for feedback
We know a large number of VLGA members, new councillors and candidates will be keen to respond to the Victorian Electoral Commission’s (VEC) call for feedback on the 2012 Local Government Elections. The VEC wants to gather voter comment in order to improve communication and services at the next elections. We urge as many of you as possible to provide feedback via the on line survey or you can call 131 832 to request a paper copy be mailed to you. All responses are confidential and subject to the VEC’s privacy policy.
Inquiry into the Constitutional Recognition of Local Government
The Joint Select Committee on Constitutional Recognition of Local Government has been appointed to conduct an inquiry into the financial recognition of local government in the Australian Constitution. At this stage, full membership of the Committee is yet to be determined. The Committee has been established following the report of an independent expert panel and is charged with assessing the likelihood of success of a referendum on financial recognition. The Committee has been directed to inquire into the majority finding (financial recognition) of the expert panel including by amending section 96 of the Constitution. The expert panel’s preferred form of words would amend section 96 to read (proposed new words in italics) “The Parliament may grant financial assistance to any State or to any local government body formed by State or Territory Legislation on such terms and conditions as the Parliament sees fit.”
VLGA young councillors’ network
During the previous council term, the VLGA coordinated an informal network of young councillors and provided an opportunity for them to meet and share ideas and experiences. We are keen to continue our support for young councillors and ideas about activities and projects can be discussed with Senior Policy Officer Jieh-Yung Lo via email or phone on 9349 7980.
VLGA to host Timor-Leste Ambassador to Australia
The VLGA will host a meeting for representatives of Friendship Groups on 15 November with His Excellency Abel Guterres, the Timor-Leste Ambassador to Australia. This will be a great opportunity for Friendship Groups to discuss issues with the Ambassador. Abel is a long term friend of the VLGA and is a current VLGA member. For more information, contact Gary Jungwirth on 0417 335 940.
Maps of social conditions across metropolitan Melbourne
A range of maps of social conditions across metropolitan Melbourne are now available. Based on the findings of the 2011 Census, the maps illustrate the distribution of residents of various birthplaces and spoken languages, as well as incomes, housing types, educational outcomes, religion and disability levels, across Melbourne. The maps provide a detailed picture of conditions down to individual neighbourhoods, and can be copied, cropped and pasted into reports and slide presentations. These maps and other information on the web site are part of a collaborative project between the VLGA and the City of Greater Dandenong.
What is crowdfunding?
A number of VLGA community chapter members along with community and social planners have contacted us for more information on crowdfunding, a contemporary approach to fund-raising which is attracting a lot of attention world-wide. This ‘explainer’ article from the 7 November edition of The Conversation, by Asif Q Gill is a helpful addition to the information available.
Victorian Women’s Trust – 2012-13 General Grants Program
The Victorian Women’s Trust (VWT) is seeking applications for projects enhancing conditions for women and girls in Victoria which lead to long-term, socially progressive change. This year the VWT is particularly interested in project applications taking new and creative approaches to issues of social and economic disadvantage and discrimination. Applications close Monday 4 February 2013. Eligible organisations must complete an application form accessible via VWT grants page. For further details contact Anne Paul on (03) 9642 0422.
ICLEI Oceania and Ironbark Sustainability release Local Government TechSelect Report
ICLEI Oceania and its partner Ironbark Sustainability have released the Local Government TechSelect report on solar and heat pump hot water systems and products. It's just like Choice magazine for councils, only free. The 60-page report includes streamlined information on solar and heat pump products to make product selection easy and is free to download.
International WaterCentre Scholarships available again
The International WaterCentre (IWC) uses innovative, problem-based education approaches to create future water leaders, capable of designing and implementing integrated solutions to global water challenges. IWC is currently offering partial scholarships for programs commencing in Semester 1, 2013 in the Master of Integrated Water Management and the Graduate Certificate in Integrated Water Management (Water Planning). IWC postgraduate degrees are co-taught and co-badged by four leading Australian universities: The University of Queensland, The University of Western Australia, Griffith University and Monash University. For more information, go online or contact the IWC via email or 07 3014 0200.
Employment vacancy
Member Relations Officer
The VLGA is currently seeking applications for the position of Member Relations Officer, to commence in 2013. The role is responsible for VLGA membership and communications-related activity and requires flexibility, initiative and the ability to work within competing demands in a complex political environment. For application details, and to download a position description visit our website.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2012 VLGA Essential Councillor Weekend – ‘Year one… here we go!’
23-24 November
The Wyndham Resort, Torquay
This event is almost at capacity – register NOW! You can download the program and registration form from our website. These two days will feature a number of expert-led practical workshops and networking opportunities relevant to how councillors approach the first year of the new council term. To find out more contact Barbara Bennett, Administration Manager via email or telephone (03) 9349 7901.
2012 VLGA Christmas ‘thank you and celebration’
Thursday 6 December, 6-8pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
Our final VLGA gathering for 2012 will be held on Thursday 6 December. Join us for our end-of-year thank you and celebration with council, community and government colleagues. We will also present the 2012 John Jago Award for Good Governance. Register here.
Other Events
VEOHRC Local Government forums
November-December
Melbourne, Wangaratta, Ararat, Mildura
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) is holding a series of human rights forums for local government in November and December. Local governments have asked for more support, training and information to help in their efforts to implement the Charter so these forums are geared towards developing skills to put human rights into practice in governance and service delivery roles. The four forums will be held on:
* 23 November in Melbourne
* 28 November in Wangaratta
* 5 December in Ararat
* 12 December in Mildura
Sustainability Accord Showcase
30 November
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is holding an event to showcase recently completed Victorian Local Sustainability Accord (Accord) funded projects, and provide an opportunity to build knowledge and foster connectivity across sustainability and climate change driven projects. The event will feature presentations and displays hosted by those directly involved with Accord projects. Local and State Government staff, and industry professionals from across Victoria are invited to attend. In addition, a live stream of presentations and Q&A sessions will be available. For more information about the live stream and to register for the event, go here.
In the 7 November 2012 edition of The Financial Review I noted a story that a number of local governments in New South Wales will recoup almost $30 million in funds lost after they put their reserves into several high-risk investment products in 2006 and 2007. According to an article in the latest ALGA news, the local governments were “assured that the investments were iron clad because the products were given a AAA credit rating…. handed out by credit ratings agency Standard & Poor's.” Federal Court Justice Jayne Jagot ruled that Local Government Financial Services - a financial intermediary owned by Local Government Super; ABN Amro - the investment bank that created the derivatives, and Standard & Poor's were negligent and had misled the local governments to invest in the derivatives. The majority of local governments affected were smaller rural shires. This is an interesting case study from another jurisdiction that highlights the potential vulnerability of smaller rural local governments who are often faced with significant infrastructure replacement and development costs, and who need to be wary of investment schemes that seem almost ‘too good to be true’. Don’t forget to submit your registration for the Essential Councillor Weekend this week – we are almost at full capacity! Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
2012 Local Government Elections – VEC calls for feedback
We know a large number of VLGA members, new councillors and candidates will be keen to respond to the Victorian Electoral Commission’s (VEC) call for feedback on the 2012 Local Government Elections. The VEC wants to gather voter comment in order to improve communication and services at the next elections. We urge as many of you as possible to provide feedback via the on line survey or you can call 131 832 to request a paper copy be mailed to you. All responses are confidential and subject to the VEC’s privacy policy.
Inquiry into the Constitutional Recognition of Local Government
The Joint Select Committee on Constitutional Recognition of Local Government has been appointed to conduct an inquiry into the financial recognition of local government in the Australian Constitution. At this stage, full membership of the Committee is yet to be determined. The Committee has been established following the report of an independent expert panel and is charged with assessing the likelihood of success of a referendum on financial recognition. The Committee has been directed to inquire into the majority finding (financial recognition) of the expert panel including by amending section 96 of the Constitution. The expert panel’s preferred form of words would amend section 96 to read (proposed new words in italics) “The Parliament may grant financial assistance to any State or to any local government body formed by State or Territory Legislation on such terms and conditions as the Parliament sees fit.”
VLGA young councillors’ network
During the previous council term, the VLGA coordinated an informal network of young councillors and provided an opportunity for them to meet and share ideas and experiences. We are keen to continue our support for young councillors and ideas about activities and projects can be discussed with Senior Policy Officer Jieh-Yung Lo via email or phone on 9349 7980.
VLGA to host Timor-Leste Ambassador to Australia
The VLGA will host a meeting for representatives of Friendship Groups on 15 November with His Excellency Abel Guterres, the Timor-Leste Ambassador to Australia. This will be a great opportunity for Friendship Groups to discuss issues with the Ambassador. Abel is a long term friend of the VLGA and is a current VLGA member. For more information, contact Gary Jungwirth on 0417 335 940.
Maps of social conditions across metropolitan Melbourne
A range of maps of social conditions across metropolitan Melbourne are now available. Based on the findings of the 2011 Census, the maps illustrate the distribution of residents of various birthplaces and spoken languages, as well as incomes, housing types, educational outcomes, religion and disability levels, across Melbourne. The maps provide a detailed picture of conditions down to individual neighbourhoods, and can be copied, cropped and pasted into reports and slide presentations. These maps and other information on the web site are part of a collaborative project between the VLGA and the City of Greater Dandenong.
What is crowdfunding?
A number of VLGA community chapter members along with community and social planners have contacted us for more information on crowdfunding, a contemporary approach to fund-raising which is attracting a lot of attention world-wide. This ‘explainer’ article from the 7 November edition of The Conversation, by Asif Q Gill is a helpful addition to the information available.
Victorian Women’s Trust – 2012-13 General Grants Program
The Victorian Women’s Trust (VWT) is seeking applications for projects enhancing conditions for women and girls in Victoria which lead to long-term, socially progressive change. This year the VWT is particularly interested in project applications taking new and creative approaches to issues of social and economic disadvantage and discrimination. Applications close Monday 4 February 2013. Eligible organisations must complete an application form accessible via VWT grants page. For further details contact Anne Paul on (03) 9642 0422.
ICLEI Oceania and Ironbark Sustainability release Local Government TechSelect Report
ICLEI Oceania and its partner Ironbark Sustainability have released the Local Government TechSelect report on solar and heat pump hot water systems and products. It's just like Choice magazine for councils, only free. The 60-page report includes streamlined information on solar and heat pump products to make product selection easy and is free to download.
International WaterCentre Scholarships available again
The International WaterCentre (IWC) uses innovative, problem-based education approaches to create future water leaders, capable of designing and implementing integrated solutions to global water challenges. IWC is currently offering partial scholarships for programs commencing in Semester 1, 2013 in the Master of Integrated Water Management and the Graduate Certificate in Integrated Water Management (Water Planning). IWC postgraduate degrees are co-taught and co-badged by four leading Australian universities: The University of Queensland, The University of Western Australia, Griffith University and Monash University. For more information, go online or contact the IWC via email or 07 3014 0200.
Employment vacancy
Member Relations Officer
The VLGA is currently seeking applications for the position of Member Relations Officer, to commence in 2013. The role is responsible for VLGA membership and communications-related activity and requires flexibility, initiative and the ability to work within competing demands in a complex political environment. For application details, and to download a position description visit our website.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2012 VLGA Essential Councillor Weekend – ‘Year one… here we go!’
23-24 November
The Wyndham Resort, Torquay
This event is almost at capacity – register NOW! You can download the program and registration form from our website. These two days will feature a number of expert-led practical workshops and networking opportunities relevant to how councillors approach the first year of the new council term. To find out more contact Barbara Bennett, Administration Manager via email or telephone (03) 9349 7901.
2012 VLGA Christmas ‘thank you and celebration’
Thursday 6 December, 6-8pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
Our final VLGA gathering for 2012 will be held on Thursday 6 December. Join us for our end-of-year thank you and celebration with council, community and government colleagues. We will also present the 2012 John Jago Award for Good Governance. Register here.
Other Events
VEOHRC Local Government forums
November-December
Melbourne, Wangaratta, Ararat, Mildura
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) is holding a series of human rights forums for local government in November and December. Local governments have asked for more support, training and information to help in their efforts to implement the Charter so these forums are geared towards developing skills to put human rights into practice in governance and service delivery roles. The four forums will be held on:
* 23 November in Melbourne
* 28 November in Wangaratta
* 5 December in Ararat
* 12 December in Mildura
Sustainability Accord Showcase
30 November
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is holding an event to showcase recently completed Victorian Local Sustainability Accord (Accord) funded projects, and provide an opportunity to build knowledge and foster connectivity across sustainability and climate change driven projects. The event will feature presentations and displays hosted by those directly involved with Accord projects. Local and State Government staff, and industry professionals from across Victoria are invited to attend. In addition, a live stream of presentations and Q&A sessions will be available. For more information about the live stream and to register for the event, go here.
5 November 2012
VLGA President’s Message
It’s nice to be with you again after a short break from my eNews messages. On behalf of the VLGA Board, I sincerely welcome all councillors to the start of the term. Congratulations to all of you on being elected for the first time, or on your re-election. I am at the end of the phone if you have questions, and I look forward to meeting many of you in the next few weeks. On Thursday evening, in place of our usual Leading Edge Forum model, the VLGA welcomed The Hon Jeanette Powell, Minister for Local Government to meet with new councillors. Minister Powell congratulated councillors on their election and talked about the challenges and issues they will face in the four-year term ahead. This included setting rates at a level that enable services and infrastructure needs to be met, working co-operatively in the chamber, and managing the time commitments that come with the role. The Minister delivered an inspiring speech, and then joined me in a facilitated ‘Q and A’ event. Participants questioned the Minister on her views about voter turn-out figures, uncontested wards, the election campaign, attendance versus postal voting, the setting of differential rates (and how the recent legislation passed by the Parliament will affect this), rating strategies generally, and the direct election of the Mayor of Geelong. It was a terrific night and we continued to network after the formalities. I sincerely thank the Minister for her generous commitment of time and for spending so much of her evening mingling with and meeting new councillors. The Minister also strongly encouraged new councillors to take up as much training and development as they can. On that note, a number of you have expressed interest in the VLGA’s Essential Councillor Weekend. Please hurry to register as bookings are coming in quickly and we may reach capacity at the venue very soon. I hope to see you there. Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
Staffing position at the VLGA
The VLGA is currently seeking applications for the position of Member Relations Officer, to commence in 2013. The role is responsible for VLGA membership and communications-related activity and requires flexibility, initiative and the ability to work within competing demands in a complex political environment. For application details, and to download a position description visit our website.
Celebrating young councillors
The VLGA is pleased to see a number of young people nominating and giving local government a go. Earlier this year, with the Youth Affairs Council of Victoria (YACVic) we hosted two interactive forums (in Melbourne and Bendigo) encouraging young people to get involved with their local councils. The VLGA has also supported a network of young councillors during the last term. While a number of young councillors across the State have been re-elected, there have also been positive results for municipalities where a youth perspective will be added to the mix for the first time, including at Ballarat, Boroondara, Kingston, and Wodonga.
ALGA welcomes Parliamentary Committee
President of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA), Felicity-ann Lewis has welcomed Parliament's decision to support local government's call to establish a Parliamentary Committee as the next step towards a referendum on the constitutional recognition of local government. A motion to establish a 12 member Joint Select Committee to consider constitutional recognition of local government was carried in the House of Representatives last week. In a media release issued this week, the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) supported the national local government position for an amendment to section 96 of the Constitution. The MAV also noted that it is important for the referendum to be held at a time when it has the best possible chance of succeeding.
Energy Efficiency Programs – Grants Rounds recommence
The Australian Government has released the Guidelines for the next round of three energy efficiency programs under its Clean Energy Future initiative.
* Community Energy Efficiency Program – Round Two
Round Two of the Community Energy Efficiency Program (CEEP) Guidelines are available on the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency website. Applications close at 5pm 7 February 2013. For further information phone 1800 830 922 or email.
* Low Income Energy Efficiency Program – Round Two
Round Two of the Low Income Energy Efficiency Program (LIEEP) Guidelines are available on the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency website. The LIEEP Round Two EOIs will close at 5pm 13 December 2012. For further information phone 1800 609 507 or email.
* Energy Efficiency Information Grants Program - Round Two
Round Two Guidelines for the EEIG are available on the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency website. Applications close 20 December 2012.
One Planet Living – Australian Tour comes to Melbourne on 16 November
This November, Pooran Desai the Co-Founder of BioRegional and One Planet Living, will be touring Australia to launch a new One Planet Living initiative that will make addressing sustainability issues easy, affordable and attractive for everyone. As part of this new initiative, BioRegional Australia will make the 'One Planet Framework' and 'Assessment Process' widely available (under an 'open source' structure) for use by corporate organisations, local governments and development projects. You are warmly invited to attend a series of public lectures and training courses that will be run during Pooran’s visit to Australia.
The 2016 Census – opportunity to have your say
Planning for the 2016 Census is underway and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is releasing a publication on 6 November proposing directions for the nation’s 17th national census. To coincide with the release, local governments and community organisations may be interested in ABS forums to be held in Melbourne on 26 and 27 November.
Public Infrastructure Bulletin and Built Environment
Bond University presents the Public Infrastructure Bulletin and Built Environment (PIB), edition 8. The PIB is an annual collection of articles from experienced practitioners and researchers collated by the Institute of Sustainable Development & Architecture. The Bond University website has a link to the PIB, Working Paper Archive and also contains copies of earlier editions of the Bulletin.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2012 VLGA Essential Councillor Weekend – ‘Year one… here we go!’
23-24 November
The Wyndham Resort, Torquay
Numbers are limited – so get in quickly. You can download the program and registration form from our website. These two days will feature a number of expert-led practical workshops and networking opportunities relevant to how councillors approach the first year of the new council term. To find out more contact Barbara Bennett, Administration Manager via email or telephone (03) 9349 7901.
2012 VLGA Christmas ‘thank you and celebration’
Thursday 6 December, 6-8pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
Our final VLGA gathering for 2012 will be held on Thursday 6 December. Join us for our end-of-year thank you and celebration with council, community and government colleagues. We will also present the 2012 John Jago Award for Good Governance. Register here.
Other Events
Australian National Telework Congress 2012
Monday 12 November, 8.30am-4.30pm
University of Melbourne Basement Theatre, 198 Berkeley St Carlton
The Australian National Telework Congress 2012 will be the opening event of Australian Telework Week which runs from 12-16 November 2012, and aims to highlight the benefits teleworking provides to employees, employers and the community. The event brings together leaders from across Australia to increase the awareness of telework across the economy.
Child Protection and Cultural Diversity – better care into the future
Thursday 29 November, 9.30am-2.30pm
Jasper Hotel, 489 Elizabeth St, Melbourne
VICSEG New Futures and partners present this important state-wide event to raise awareness of the Protecting Victoria’s Vulnerable Children Inquiry report within the migrant and refugee community and to inform the responses of the child and family welfare sector to its recommendations. RSVP essential. Register online or email for further information.
VEOHRC Local Government forums
November-December
Melbourne, Wangaratta, Ararat, Mildura
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) is holding a series of human rights forums for local government in November and December. Local governments have asked for more support, training and information to help in their efforts to implement the Charter so these forums are geared towards developing skills to put human rights into practice in governance and service delivery roles. The four forums will be held on:
* 23 November in Melbourne
* 28 November in Wangaratta
* 5 December in Ararat
* 12 December in Mildura
Sustainability Accord Showcase
30 November
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is holding an event to showcase recently completed Victorian Local Sustainability Accord (Accord) funded projects, and provide an opportunity to build knowledge and foster connectivity across sustainability and climate change driven projects. The event will feature presentations and displays hosted by those directly involved with Accord projects. Local and State Government staff, and industry professionals from across Victoria are invited to attend. In addition, a live stream of presentations and Q&A sessions will be available. For more information about the live stream and to register for the event, go here.
It’s nice to be with you again after a short break from my eNews messages. On behalf of the VLGA Board, I sincerely welcome all councillors to the start of the term. Congratulations to all of you on being elected for the first time, or on your re-election. I am at the end of the phone if you have questions, and I look forward to meeting many of you in the next few weeks. On Thursday evening, in place of our usual Leading Edge Forum model, the VLGA welcomed The Hon Jeanette Powell, Minister for Local Government to meet with new councillors. Minister Powell congratulated councillors on their election and talked about the challenges and issues they will face in the four-year term ahead. This included setting rates at a level that enable services and infrastructure needs to be met, working co-operatively in the chamber, and managing the time commitments that come with the role. The Minister delivered an inspiring speech, and then joined me in a facilitated ‘Q and A’ event. Participants questioned the Minister on her views about voter turn-out figures, uncontested wards, the election campaign, attendance versus postal voting, the setting of differential rates (and how the recent legislation passed by the Parliament will affect this), rating strategies generally, and the direct election of the Mayor of Geelong. It was a terrific night and we continued to network after the formalities. I sincerely thank the Minister for her generous commitment of time and for spending so much of her evening mingling with and meeting new councillors. The Minister also strongly encouraged new councillors to take up as much training and development as they can. On that note, a number of you have expressed interest in the VLGA’s Essential Councillor Weekend. Please hurry to register as bookings are coming in quickly and we may reach capacity at the venue very soon. I hope to see you there. Please don’t hesitate to email or give me a call on 0407 364 509 if there’s anything you wish to discuss. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn
President
Keeping you up to date
Staffing position at the VLGA
The VLGA is currently seeking applications for the position of Member Relations Officer, to commence in 2013. The role is responsible for VLGA membership and communications-related activity and requires flexibility, initiative and the ability to work within competing demands in a complex political environment. For application details, and to download a position description visit our website.
Celebrating young councillors
The VLGA is pleased to see a number of young people nominating and giving local government a go. Earlier this year, with the Youth Affairs Council of Victoria (YACVic) we hosted two interactive forums (in Melbourne and Bendigo) encouraging young people to get involved with their local councils. The VLGA has also supported a network of young councillors during the last term. While a number of young councillors across the State have been re-elected, there have also been positive results for municipalities where a youth perspective will be added to the mix for the first time, including at Ballarat, Boroondara, Kingston, and Wodonga.
ALGA welcomes Parliamentary Committee
President of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA), Felicity-ann Lewis has welcomed Parliament's decision to support local government's call to establish a Parliamentary Committee as the next step towards a referendum on the constitutional recognition of local government. A motion to establish a 12 member Joint Select Committee to consider constitutional recognition of local government was carried in the House of Representatives last week. In a media release issued this week, the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) supported the national local government position for an amendment to section 96 of the Constitution. The MAV also noted that it is important for the referendum to be held at a time when it has the best possible chance of succeeding.
Energy Efficiency Programs – Grants Rounds recommence
The Australian Government has released the Guidelines for the next round of three energy efficiency programs under its Clean Energy Future initiative.
* Community Energy Efficiency Program – Round Two
Round Two of the Community Energy Efficiency Program (CEEP) Guidelines are available on the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency website. Applications close at 5pm 7 February 2013. For further information phone 1800 830 922 or email.
* Low Income Energy Efficiency Program – Round Two
Round Two of the Low Income Energy Efficiency Program (LIEEP) Guidelines are available on the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency website. The LIEEP Round Two EOIs will close at 5pm 13 December 2012. For further information phone 1800 609 507 or email.
* Energy Efficiency Information Grants Program - Round Two
Round Two Guidelines for the EEIG are available on the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency website. Applications close 20 December 2012.
One Planet Living – Australian Tour comes to Melbourne on 16 November
This November, Pooran Desai the Co-Founder of BioRegional and One Planet Living, will be touring Australia to launch a new One Planet Living initiative that will make addressing sustainability issues easy, affordable and attractive for everyone. As part of this new initiative, BioRegional Australia will make the 'One Planet Framework' and 'Assessment Process' widely available (under an 'open source' structure) for use by corporate organisations, local governments and development projects. You are warmly invited to attend a series of public lectures and training courses that will be run during Pooran’s visit to Australia.
The 2016 Census – opportunity to have your say
Planning for the 2016 Census is underway and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is releasing a publication on 6 November proposing directions for the nation’s 17th national census. To coincide with the release, local governments and community organisations may be interested in ABS forums to be held in Melbourne on 26 and 27 November.
Public Infrastructure Bulletin and Built Environment
Bond University presents the Public Infrastructure Bulletin and Built Environment (PIB), edition 8. The PIB is an annual collection of articles from experienced practitioners and researchers collated by the Institute of Sustainable Development & Architecture. The Bond University website has a link to the PIB, Working Paper Archive and also contains copies of earlier editions of the Bulletin.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
2012 VLGA Essential Councillor Weekend – ‘Year one… here we go!’
23-24 November
The Wyndham Resort, Torquay
Numbers are limited – so get in quickly. You can download the program and registration form from our website. These two days will feature a number of expert-led practical workshops and networking opportunities relevant to how councillors approach the first year of the new council term. To find out more contact Barbara Bennett, Administration Manager via email or telephone (03) 9349 7901.
2012 VLGA Christmas ‘thank you and celebration’
Thursday 6 December, 6-8pm
60 Leicester St, Carlton
Our final VLGA gathering for 2012 will be held on Thursday 6 December. Join us for our end-of-year thank you and celebration with council, community and government colleagues. We will also present the 2012 John Jago Award for Good Governance. Register here.
Other Events
Australian National Telework Congress 2012
Monday 12 November, 8.30am-4.30pm
University of Melbourne Basement Theatre, 198 Berkeley St Carlton
The Australian National Telework Congress 2012 will be the opening event of Australian Telework Week which runs from 12-16 November 2012, and aims to highlight the benefits teleworking provides to employees, employers and the community. The event brings together leaders from across Australia to increase the awareness of telework across the economy.
Child Protection and Cultural Diversity – better care into the future
Thursday 29 November, 9.30am-2.30pm
Jasper Hotel, 489 Elizabeth St, Melbourne
VICSEG New Futures and partners present this important state-wide event to raise awareness of the Protecting Victoria’s Vulnerable Children Inquiry report within the migrant and refugee community and to inform the responses of the child and family welfare sector to its recommendations. RSVP essential. Register online or email for further information.
VEOHRC Local Government forums
November-December
Melbourne, Wangaratta, Ararat, Mildura
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) is holding a series of human rights forums for local government in November and December. Local governments have asked for more support, training and information to help in their efforts to implement the Charter so these forums are geared towards developing skills to put human rights into practice in governance and service delivery roles. The four forums will be held on:
* 23 November in Melbourne
* 28 November in Wangaratta
* 5 December in Ararat
* 12 December in Mildura
Sustainability Accord Showcase
30 November
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is holding an event to showcase recently completed Victorian Local Sustainability Accord (Accord) funded projects, and provide an opportunity to build knowledge and foster connectivity across sustainability and climate change driven projects. The event will feature presentations and displays hosted by those directly involved with Accord projects. Local and State Government staff, and industry professionals from across Victoria are invited to attend. In addition, a live stream of presentations and Q&A sessions will be available. For more information about the live stream and to register for the event, go here.
29 October 2012
2012 Local Government Elections – the wrap…
The VLGA followed the results and trends in our Tally Room over the weekend, and we had a wide audience for our blog posts. We are delighted to announce that our President, Cr Samantha Dunn, and Vice President, Cr Heinz Kreutz have both been returned to their respective councils, Yarra Ranges and Boroondara. Other VLGA Board members who have been re-elected are Luba Grigorovitch at Hobsons Bay and Collin Ross at Cardinia. Cr Christine Richards did not stand for re-election at Frankston. Sadly, John Doull lost his tilt at a new ward in the City of Greater Geelong. Other significant results are that Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Robert Doyle has been returned, and for the first time, Geelong residents have had the chance to elect their own Mayor and the results should be known by tonight. Much has been made of the need to review the 2012 Victorian local government elections and anecdotes that this has been the ‘dirtiest’ campaign in many years. The media emphasis and commentary on the 2012 local government elections left many wondering if voters would be disconnected and disenchanted. In many campaigns that were seen as ‘dirty’ or difficult, voters have seen through negative messages that played the person and not the policies and in fact, our analysis of voter turnout suggests people have been well engaged. It would be wonderful if we could all see these elections as a true celebration of democracy. A record number of people – 2003 – stood as candidates for local government in Victoria. At the VLGA, we are looking at another trend, namely the number of uncontested wards across the State. This is perhaps a more telling sign of a lack of engagement with local government. It is not a reflection on those who have been elected unopposed – in fact we hear from many unopposed councillors that they would prefer a contest and to feel they have won on merit. We also believe there is a need for a wider community debate about postal versus attendance voting. Most local governments moved to postal voting in Victoria at the time of amalgamations. There has been speculation that postal voting may lead to more ‘dummy’ candidates. In contrast, it can be a more efficient process for local governments, and enables a greater number of people to participate in voting. We plan to do some comparative research on this issue. We have also heard from a number of people that they have been frustrated with the number of authorities governing the election process, depending upon the issue. Finally, we hope that many new and returning councillors will join us this Thursday evening for our special Leading Edge Forum with the Minister for Local Government, The Hon Jeanette Powell. Further details can be found below.
Maree McPherson
Chief Executive Officer
Keeping you up to date
VLGA’s Think women for local government campaign a success
While final local government elections figures are still being assessed, analysis by the VLGA reveals that the number of women elected to councils across Victoria has increased on the 2008 election. There was a woman standing for election in every council in Victoria. Overall, at this stage it looks like 34 per cent of successful candidates in this year’s elections are women, compared with the elections in 2008, when close to 30 per cent of candidates elected were women. At least fifteen local governments have improved their overall gender balance – significantly in rural and regional Victoria at this stage. These include Ballarat, Bendigo, Buloke, Gannawarra, Glenelg, Indigo, Murrindindi, Pyrenees, Queenscliffe and Southern Grampians. In the metropolitan area, we note Boroondara, Cardinia, Frankston, Glen Eira, Hobsons Bay, Knox, Kingston, Manningham and Moonee Valley have increased their numbers of women councillors. Hindmarsh stands out as having gone from zero to fifty percent women with even distribution across their wards. Congratulations to Linda Bennett for her outstanding work in this project. You can see our media release here.
Metropolitan Planning Strategy discussion paper launched
Planning Minster Matthew Guy launched the Melbourne, let’s talk about the future discussion paper at the Metropolitan Planning Strategy Symposium held on Friday. Prepared by a Ministerial Advisory Committee, the paper is designed to prompt debate about the challenges Melbourne faces and ideas for the future. The Discussion Paper sets out nine principles to inform the Metropolitan Planning Strategy. Five of these principles identify the outcomes the Strategy needs to address and the remaining four principles outline how these outcomes can be achieved. The VLGA will work with members and supporters in the coming months to develop a response to the discussion paper. Please contact Toby Archer, our Director Policy, via email if you would like to contribute.
Draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy released
Yesterday, Minister for the Environment and Climate Change, Ryan Smith released the Draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy. With Victoria’s current waste policy Towards Zero Waste ready to end in 2014, the Victorian Government has undertaken a review of the existing waste policy settings and practices. Earlier this year, the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), in conjunction with environment portfolio partners, ran extensive consultation with industry, government and community. The draft draws on insights, priorities and issues identified throughout this consultation. From the website you can make a submission to the draft policy as well as find a link to the DSE Yammer online discussion group for the Waste Policy Review. Responses are due by Friday 23 November 2012.
Local Government (Miscellaneous) Bill 2012
Last Thursday night the Victorian Parliament passed the Local Government (Miscellaneous) Amendment Bill, which includes 17 amendments covering decision-making and governance; councillor conduct; rates and municipal charges; and general administration. In the VLGA’s view, the amendments are a mix of sensible improvements and unnecessary interventions. We are disappointed that the Victorian Government is now able to prohibit differential rates which councils have developed in consultation with their communities but we will work with the Multi-party Ministerial Committee to develop the ministerial guidelines on differential rates. Election donation returns will now be published on council websites. This is an important step toward improving transparency in local government.
VLGA submission to the Vision for Citizenship in a Multicultural Victoria
Last week, the VLGA made a submission to the Victorian Government’s Vision for Citizenship in a Multicultural Victoria. In our submission, the VLGA strongly supported the development of a comprehensive whole-of-government strategy to enhance voting accessibility, electoral knowledge and communication with individuals and communities of CALD backgrounds.
Tobacco Amendment (Smoking at Patrolled Beaches) Bill 2012
This Bill was moved for a second reading in the Legislative Council on 25 October. While the VLGA welcomes the Victorian government taking action to prohibit smoking in public places, we believe the proposal to ban smoking at patrolled beaches is unnecessarily modest. We strongly believe the Victorian government should adopt a comprehensive approach to prohibiting smoking in public places similar to the approach adopted by the Queensland government in 2005. In order for bans on smoking in public places to be effective, they should be comprehensive and consistent across the State. Reliance solely on the local government sector to reduce smoking in public places will result in a patchwork of local laws that will not benefit from the self-enforcement of a state-wide ban. We are also concerned that enforcement responsibilities will fall to local governments. We strongly recommend the provision of additional financial resources to those coastal local governments required to enforce the proposed ban.
Congratulations to Ballarat
The Ballarat City Council Community Charter for the Prevention of Violence against Women, designed to make it easy to endorse, has been launched and looks very impressive. Congratulations to retiring councillor Cheryl Bromfield and the Ballarat team on this initiative.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
November Leading Edge Forum: Meet the new councillors
Thursday 1 November, 6-9pm
Carlton
Join us and our special guest The Hon Jeanette Powell MP, Minister for Local Government, who will welcome newly elected councillors to their four-year term. Register online or phone (03) 9349 7999.
2012 VLGA Essential Councillor Weekend – ‘Year one… here we go!’
23-24 November
The Wyndham Resort, Torquay
Numbers are limited – so get in quickly. You can download the program and registration form from our website. These two days will feature a number of expert-led practical workshops and networking opportunities relevant to how councillors approach the first year of the new council term. To find out more contact Sarah Colgan, Member Resources Officer via email or telephone (03) 9349 7983.
Other Events
Beyond Behaviour: Social Theory and Climate Change Policy seminar
15 November, 4.30-6pm
RMIT City Campus, Emily McPherson Building, Cnr Russell & Victoria Sts Melbourne
The Centre for Design and the Sustainable Urban Regional Futures (SURF) Program, Global Cities Research Institute, would like to invite you to the upcoming Beyond Behaviour: Social Theory and Climate Change Policy Seminar presented by Prof Elizabeth Shove. See more here. To register, email by Thursday 8 November. Places are limited.
VEOHRC Local Government forums
November-December
Melbourne, Wangaratta, Ararat, Mildura
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) is holding a series of human rights forums for local government in November and December. Local governments have asked for more support, training and information to help in their efforts to implement the Charter so these forums are geared towards developing skills to put human rights into practice in governance and service delivery roles. The four forums will be held on:
* 23 November in Melbourne
* 28 November in Wangaratta
* 5 December in Ararat
* 12 December in Mildura
Sustainability Accord Showcase
30 November
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is holding an event to showcase recently completed Victorian Local Sustainability Accord (Accord) funded projects, and provide an opportunity to build knowledge and foster connectivity across sustainability and climate change driven projects. The event will feature presentations and displays hosted by those directly involved with Accord projects. Local and State Government staff, and industry professionals from across Victoria are invited to attend. In addition, a live stream of presentations and Q&A sessions will be available. For more information about the live stream and to register for the event, go here.
Inaugural National Rural Women’s Conference
18-20 February 2013
National Convention Centre, Canberra
The inaugural National Rural Women's Conference – an initiative of the National Rural Women's Coalition – is being held in Canberra in February 2013. While many states have their own Rural Women's conferences and gatherings, this Conference stands out as it aims to bring all of these individual groups together to network, learn and share. Registrations have opened and early registrants can take advantage of an early bird rate.
The VLGA followed the results and trends in our Tally Room over the weekend, and we had a wide audience for our blog posts. We are delighted to announce that our President, Cr Samantha Dunn, and Vice President, Cr Heinz Kreutz have both been returned to their respective councils, Yarra Ranges and Boroondara. Other VLGA Board members who have been re-elected are Luba Grigorovitch at Hobsons Bay and Collin Ross at Cardinia. Cr Christine Richards did not stand for re-election at Frankston. Sadly, John Doull lost his tilt at a new ward in the City of Greater Geelong. Other significant results are that Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Robert Doyle has been returned, and for the first time, Geelong residents have had the chance to elect their own Mayor and the results should be known by tonight. Much has been made of the need to review the 2012 Victorian local government elections and anecdotes that this has been the ‘dirtiest’ campaign in many years. The media emphasis and commentary on the 2012 local government elections left many wondering if voters would be disconnected and disenchanted. In many campaigns that were seen as ‘dirty’ or difficult, voters have seen through negative messages that played the person and not the policies and in fact, our analysis of voter turnout suggests people have been well engaged. It would be wonderful if we could all see these elections as a true celebration of democracy. A record number of people – 2003 – stood as candidates for local government in Victoria. At the VLGA, we are looking at another trend, namely the number of uncontested wards across the State. This is perhaps a more telling sign of a lack of engagement with local government. It is not a reflection on those who have been elected unopposed – in fact we hear from many unopposed councillors that they would prefer a contest and to feel they have won on merit. We also believe there is a need for a wider community debate about postal versus attendance voting. Most local governments moved to postal voting in Victoria at the time of amalgamations. There has been speculation that postal voting may lead to more ‘dummy’ candidates. In contrast, it can be a more efficient process for local governments, and enables a greater number of people to participate in voting. We plan to do some comparative research on this issue. We have also heard from a number of people that they have been frustrated with the number of authorities governing the election process, depending upon the issue. Finally, we hope that many new and returning councillors will join us this Thursday evening for our special Leading Edge Forum with the Minister for Local Government, The Hon Jeanette Powell. Further details can be found below.
Maree McPherson
Chief Executive Officer
Keeping you up to date
VLGA’s Think women for local government campaign a success
While final local government elections figures are still being assessed, analysis by the VLGA reveals that the number of women elected to councils across Victoria has increased on the 2008 election. There was a woman standing for election in every council in Victoria. Overall, at this stage it looks like 34 per cent of successful candidates in this year’s elections are women, compared with the elections in 2008, when close to 30 per cent of candidates elected were women. At least fifteen local governments have improved their overall gender balance – significantly in rural and regional Victoria at this stage. These include Ballarat, Bendigo, Buloke, Gannawarra, Glenelg, Indigo, Murrindindi, Pyrenees, Queenscliffe and Southern Grampians. In the metropolitan area, we note Boroondara, Cardinia, Frankston, Glen Eira, Hobsons Bay, Knox, Kingston, Manningham and Moonee Valley have increased their numbers of women councillors. Hindmarsh stands out as having gone from zero to fifty percent women with even distribution across their wards. Congratulations to Linda Bennett for her outstanding work in this project. You can see our media release here.
Metropolitan Planning Strategy discussion paper launched
Planning Minster Matthew Guy launched the Melbourne, let’s talk about the future discussion paper at the Metropolitan Planning Strategy Symposium held on Friday. Prepared by a Ministerial Advisory Committee, the paper is designed to prompt debate about the challenges Melbourne faces and ideas for the future. The Discussion Paper sets out nine principles to inform the Metropolitan Planning Strategy. Five of these principles identify the outcomes the Strategy needs to address and the remaining four principles outline how these outcomes can be achieved. The VLGA will work with members and supporters in the coming months to develop a response to the discussion paper. Please contact Toby Archer, our Director Policy, via email if you would like to contribute.
Draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy released
Yesterday, Minister for the Environment and Climate Change, Ryan Smith released the Draft Victorian Waste and Resource Recovery Policy. With Victoria’s current waste policy Towards Zero Waste ready to end in 2014, the Victorian Government has undertaken a review of the existing waste policy settings and practices. Earlier this year, the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), in conjunction with environment portfolio partners, ran extensive consultation with industry, government and community. The draft draws on insights, priorities and issues identified throughout this consultation. From the website you can make a submission to the draft policy as well as find a link to the DSE Yammer online discussion group for the Waste Policy Review. Responses are due by Friday 23 November 2012.
Local Government (Miscellaneous) Bill 2012
Last Thursday night the Victorian Parliament passed the Local Government (Miscellaneous) Amendment Bill, which includes 17 amendments covering decision-making and governance; councillor conduct; rates and municipal charges; and general administration. In the VLGA’s view, the amendments are a mix of sensible improvements and unnecessary interventions. We are disappointed that the Victorian Government is now able to prohibit differential rates which councils have developed in consultation with their communities but we will work with the Multi-party Ministerial Committee to develop the ministerial guidelines on differential rates. Election donation returns will now be published on council websites. This is an important step toward improving transparency in local government.
VLGA submission to the Vision for Citizenship in a Multicultural Victoria
Last week, the VLGA made a submission to the Victorian Government’s Vision for Citizenship in a Multicultural Victoria. In our submission, the VLGA strongly supported the development of a comprehensive whole-of-government strategy to enhance voting accessibility, electoral knowledge and communication with individuals and communities of CALD backgrounds.
Tobacco Amendment (Smoking at Patrolled Beaches) Bill 2012
This Bill was moved for a second reading in the Legislative Council on 25 October. While the VLGA welcomes the Victorian government taking action to prohibit smoking in public places, we believe the proposal to ban smoking at patrolled beaches is unnecessarily modest. We strongly believe the Victorian government should adopt a comprehensive approach to prohibiting smoking in public places similar to the approach adopted by the Queensland government in 2005. In order for bans on smoking in public places to be effective, they should be comprehensive and consistent across the State. Reliance solely on the local government sector to reduce smoking in public places will result in a patchwork of local laws that will not benefit from the self-enforcement of a state-wide ban. We are also concerned that enforcement responsibilities will fall to local governments. We strongly recommend the provision of additional financial resources to those coastal local governments required to enforce the proposed ban.
Congratulations to Ballarat
The Ballarat City Council Community Charter for the Prevention of Violence against Women, designed to make it easy to endorse, has been launched and looks very impressive. Congratulations to retiring councillor Cheryl Bromfield and the Ballarat team on this initiative.
Events for your diary
VLGA Events
November Leading Edge Forum: Meet the new councillors
Thursday 1 November, 6-9pm
Carlton
Join us and our special guest The Hon Jeanette Powell MP, Minister for Local Government, who will welcome newly elected councillors to their four-year term. Register online or phone (03) 9349 7999.
2012 VLGA Essential Councillor Weekend – ‘Year one… here we go!’
23-24 November
The Wyndham Resort, Torquay
Numbers are limited – so get in quickly. You can download the program and registration form from our website. These two days will feature a number of expert-led practical workshops and networking opportunities relevant to how councillors approach the first year of the new council term. To find out more contact Sarah Colgan, Member Resources Officer via email or telephone (03) 9349 7983.
Other Events
Beyond Behaviour: Social Theory and Climate Change Policy seminar
15 November, 4.30-6pm
RMIT City Campus, Emily McPherson Building, Cnr Russell & Victoria Sts Melbourne
The Centre for Design and the Sustainable Urban Regional Futures (SURF) Program, Global Cities Research Institute, would like to invite you to the upcoming Beyond Behaviour: Social Theory and Climate Change Policy Seminar presented by Prof Elizabeth Shove. See more here. To register, email by Thursday 8 November. Places are limited.
VEOHRC Local Government forums
November-December
Melbourne, Wangaratta, Ararat, Mildura
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) is holding a series of human rights forums for local government in November and December. Local governments have asked for more support, training and information to help in their efforts to implement the Charter so these forums are geared towards developing skills to put human rights into practice in governance and service delivery roles. The four forums will be held on:
* 23 November in Melbourne
* 28 November in Wangaratta
* 5 December in Ararat
* 12 December in Mildura
Sustainability Accord Showcase
30 November
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is holding an event to showcase recently completed Victorian Local Sustainability Accord (Accord) funded projects, and provide an opportunity to build knowledge and foster connectivity across sustainability and climate change driven projects. The event will feature presentations and displays hosted by those directly involved with Accord projects. Local and State Government staff, and industry professionals from across Victoria are invited to attend. In addition, a live stream of presentations and Q&A sessions will be available. For more information about the live stream and to register for the event, go here.
Inaugural National Rural Women’s Conference
18-20 February 2013
National Convention Centre, Canberra
The inaugural National Rural Women's Conference – an initiative of the National Rural Women's Coalition – is being held in Canberra in February 2013. While many states have their own Rural Women's conferences and gatherings, this Conference stands out as it aims to bring all of these individual groups together to network, learn and share. Registrations have opened and early registrants can take advantage of an early bird rate.
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