You would be aware that all of Victoria’s 79 local governments are currently hearing from our communities as we put the finishing touches to our business plans and budgets for the year ahead.
The VLGA Board this week is also turning its mind to how member priorities and key challenges over the coming year can be met within the modest resources we have available to us. Key features of this year’s VLGA Budget are likely to include:
* Strengthening our engagement with members
* Facilitating and supporting members, stakeholders and communities in the sustainable community debate and climate change challenges
* Planning and implementing a strategy to promote local government, diversity and good governance for local government elections in 2012
* Facilitating and supporting local government and community involvement in key land use planning issues, and
* Continuing to provide advice and support to councillors, officers, local governments and communities.
* Facilitating and supporting members, stakeholders and communities in the sustainable community debate and climate change challenges
* Planning and implementing a strategy to promote local government, diversity and good governance for local government elections in 2012
* Facilitating and supporting local government and community involvement in key land use planning issues, and
* Continuing to provide advice and support to councillors, officers, local governments and communities.
More details will follow after further consideration by the VLGA Board at its next two meetings. If you have thoughts on our priorities, feel free to contact us.
Finally, I’d encourage you all to participate in two important weeks starting this week, including Responsible Gambling Awareness Week and National Reconciliation Week. I look forward to seeing you around and about. If you’d like to contact me, call me on 0407 364 509 or drop me an email. Cheers.
Cr Samantha Dunn, President
Keeping you up to date
Update on direct election of Greater Geelong Mayor and Deputy
As discussed in last week’s VLGA eNews, given that the State Government’s Discussion Paper is not focussed on the substantive issues of whether such reforms are a good idea for the sector, we have written a letter to Local Government Minister Jeanette Powell MP and her shadow Richard Wynne MP canvassing two key issues to be considered before reforms are pursued. In the interests of transparency and informed debate, we are also requesting Local Government Victoria release submissions from interested parties who have said they are happy for their submission to be made public. If this occurs, we will provide a link to public submissions.
Sensible decision on calls for Traralgon secession
The VLGA welcomes the State Government’s decision to bring forward an Electoral Representation Review (ERR) in Latrobe, rather than it taking an ad hoc approach to calls for secession in Traralgon. All ERRs conducted to date focus on key representation challenges, including the tension between adequate representation of communities of interest and significant pockets of growth being experienced in some local governments. The Latrobe review will no doubt lend more weight to our argument that an overall review of the impacts of ERRs for governance and community representation needs to be pursued during this term of government.
Indigenous Acknowledgements
There has been much community debate and media coverage concerning the Premier’s announcement last week that it was no longer mandatory for ministers and public servants to recognise traditional landowners at official events. VLGA members tell us that far from being tokenistic or gratuitous, acknowledgements are now embedded as one practical way we deliver our own local reconciliation actions. Most accept that the respectful acknowledgement of local indigenous communities at local events led by councillors means a lot to those who attend these events, and that such acknowledgements are valued. The VLGA will be saying more about this issue following further member consultation. In the meantime, we would like to see the focus shift away from the politics to the positive things that are happening on the ground. We continue to value our partnership with Reconciliation Victoria, funded by the State Government, to celebrate and extend the practical things that are happening in our local communities. Likewise we support the State Government’s recent announcement to set up an Indigenous Honour Roll. Please consider attending our June Leading Edge Forum: Local government leaders connecting with Aboriginal communities on 2 June (see below for more information). This will also be an opportunity for members to convey your views on this issue.
2011 National Local Government Awards
Victorian local governments recently scooped 3 out of the 10 award categories. Frankston won the Inspired Cities category, for their Frankston Student Discount Card Scheme (Splash Card). Manningham won the Promoting Reconciliation category, for their Manningham Reconciliation Week Program and Exhibition. Moonee Valley won the Youth Engagement category, for their Sustainable Employment and Economic Development (SEED) Youth Project. We wish all three the best in their quest for the overall 2011 National Award for Excellence in Local Government, to be announced at the National General Assembly of ALGA in late June.
Responsible Gambling Awareness Week, 23-29 May
Many Victorian local governments and community agencies such as Gambler’s Help Services will be holding local events across Victoria starting from today. Find out what is happening in your local area and download resources here. The week’s themes of knowledge, balance and control promote responsible behaviour at a personal and community level. Responsible Gambling Awareness Week messages aim to:
* Increase the Victorian community’s awareness of responsible gambling practices and strategies to ‘stay in control’, and
* Increase organisational awareness about responsible gambling practices and available support services.
As well as supporting the week, the VLGA continues to call on both levels of government to introduce measures to tackle the harmful aspects of pokies and internet gambling. Like an overwhelming majority of Australians, we continue to be concerned about the impacts for our communities as a whole, as well as the hundreds of thousands of problem gamblers, their families and friends.
National Reconciliation Week, 27 May–3 June
Please share your National Reconciliation Week celebrations with the rest of Australia by entering your details into the NRW calendar of events. To help you celebrate and learn more about National Reconciliation Week 2011: Let’s Talk Recognition, see the National Reconciliation Week Kit which includes educational information, activity ideas, teaching resources and more.
4-year review of Victoria’s Human Rights Charter
The Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 (Vic) requires Attorney-General Robert Clark MP to arrange for there to be a review of the Charter after four years of operation, and again after eight years of operation. These reviews were built into the legislation because the Charter is a new and developing law. The intention of Parliament was to ensure that the Charter remains flexible and effective in supporting community values and aspirations in Victoria. The VLGA strongly encourages members to consider making a submission, as we will do. Local case studies are always valued in any submissions. The Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) has developed a very helpful position paper in response to requests for information about their position on key elements of the review. Speaking of the Human Rights Charter, it continues to make a real, practical difference in the lives of Victorians who come into contact with government departments and other public bodies, according to the fourth Charter report tabled in Parliament last week. Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commissioner Dr Helen Szoke said that the 2010 report on the operation of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities shows that taking a human rights-based approach leads to fairer and more equitable government services and policies. Real life examples of the Charter being used for the benefit of everyday people also feature strongly in the report. The VLGA's toolkit for local governments, From Compliance to Culture, is also a useful resource for members.
Process announced for potential expansion of urban growth boundary
A new process has been announced by Planning Minister The Hon. Matthew Guy to help address the shortage of metropolitan land supply. The process will determine possible urban growth boundary inclusions stemming from a review of the 2009 boundary changes. The independent process will determine possible inclusions of properties within the urban growth boundary affecting Wyndham, Melton, Hume, Whittlesea, Mitchell, Casey and Cardinia growth areas. The Growth Areas Authority will review the merits of land submissions already submitted to the 2009 urban growth boundary review. The GAA will then refer submissions to a new Logical Inclusions Advisory Committee for final determination and advice to the Minister. The VLGA welcomes the fact that the Minister has also released Standards and Decision Criteria to be applied to the assessment of proposals.
Are you a single women, aged 40 and over, with or without children and don’t expect to own your own home outright before you retire?
The Institute of Social Research at Swinburne University and the Salvation Army is conducting an anonymous survey on Women and Housing Affordability. The data obtained from the survey will assist in developing a housing model to fit the needs of women in these circumstances. All data is treated confidentially and the survey will take about 20-35 minutes to complete. Survey respondents can enter into a draw for one of twenty $50 gift vouchers. Your details will be collected separately from the survey. Prizes will be drawn on 2 September 2011 and winners will be notified by correspondence. Paper-based surveys are available by contacting Andrea Sharam via email or telephone (03) 9214 5465. You can also go to their Facebook page and leave comments.Ballarat growth receives green light
In another significant decision, one of the state’s most significant planning projects – the Ballarat West Growth Area – received a boost last week following the approval of the Alfredton West Precinct Structure Plan by the Minister for Planning. The Alfredton West Precinct Structure Plan will guide the first stages of development for the recently named suburb of Lucas. City of Ballarat Growth and Development Portfolio Councillor Noel Perry said, “with our population expanding at around 2,000 people each year, this Council needs to remain ahead of the game to facilitate the release of land to market in the most cost effective and efficient manner. This Structure Plan covers an area of 325ha and will deliver around 3,900 new dwellings to house approximately 11,000 people. The plan also includes a neighbourhood activity centre with retail and commercial areas to enhance local shopping and community facilities, educational facilities, public transport, active and passive recreational areas and parkland”. The plan has undergone extensive consultation with the community, government agencies, service agencies, and other key stakeholders throughout the planning process. More information here.
Not to be missed! VLGA June Leading Edge Forum: Local government leaders connecting with Aboriginal communities
As referred to above, we invite you to join us during National Reconciliation Week and:* hear from Victorian and inter-state Indigenous leaders about the roles and opportunities for Victorian local governments to contribute to bridging the gap and advancing reconciliation
* discuss positive examples and promote discussion about relationships between Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders and communities
This Leading Edge Forum is specifically designed for elected councillors and Mayors, and follows a similar forum we held in November last year with the Community and Social Planners Network designed for local government officers and community groups. Officers and community members are also welcome. We have an excellent range of speakers to leave us all inspired about simple things we can do as elected leaders to advance reconciliation in our local communities. For more information and to register see the flyer here.
Events for your diary
VLGA events
‘Liveable and Just’ Workshop, Wodonga: Helping local governments build community resilience to climate-related challenges
Thursday 26 May, 9.30am-4pm
Wodonga TAFE, 87 McKoy St, West Wodonga
There are still places available for the three remaining rural and regional Liveable and Just Workshops, including in Wodonga this week, conducted the VLGA, supported by mecu Ltd, and each hosted by a VLGA member local government. Join us for an entertaining and practical event, and learn how our Liveable and Just Toolkit can help you build community resilience in the face of complex climate-related challenges.
Dates and locations for subsequent sessions (all sessions run 9.30am-4pm) are:
Mildura: Friday 3 June - Alfred Deakin Centre, 180 Deakin Ave (cnr 12th St)
Traralgon: Friday 17 June - Quality Inn Latrobe Convention Centre, Princes Hwy, Traralgon
Download the flyer and registration form. For more information contact Philip Schier, VLGA Senior Policy Officer, via email or telephone (03) 9349 7999.
Other events
Planning for Wind Farms
Tuesday 24 May, 2-4.30pm
Geelong
This Planning Institute of Australia (Victorian Division) seminar looks at the issues involved in planning for wind farms in regional Victoria. Featuring a panel of experienced professionals and a community advocate, PIA aims to provide a well-rounded discussion. There will be an opportunity after the seminar to gather for informal discussions and networking, with sponsored refreshments provided. More information and register here.
Learning about Aboriginal culture: Framlingham Tour
Saturday-Sunday 28-29 May 2011
Interested in doing something adventurous, rewarding and affordable for Reconciliation Week this year? The Framlingham Aboriginal Community has organised an overnight tour to the Community (north-east of Warrnambool) on 28 and 29 May. This special tour is supported by the friendship between Brunswick Neighbourhood House (BHN) and the Framlingham Community. Car-pooling may be available through the Brunswick Neighbourhood House. See more information on the VLGA website or contact BHN Coordinator Mick Fitzgerald via email or on (03) 9386 9418.
Communities in Control Conference 2011: Let’s get moving, today, together. Australia's not going to reform itself
Monday-Tuesday 30-31 May
Melbourne
Join 1300 other people from across the country who believe in the power of community. National and international speakers will include a surprise orator for the Inaugural Joan Kirner Social Justice Oration. In between the speeches you can make contacts, catch up, network, and meet knowledgeable and sympathetic new colleagues. Stay in front of the pack by hearing from people dedicated to thinking about our future – like Linda Lavarch, Chair of the Australian Government's Not-for-Profit Sector Reform Council; Hugh Mackay, Australia's greatest psychologist, social researcher and writer on what makes us tick; Phil Ruthven, Founder & Chairman of IBISWorld, which is Australia's best-known business information, forecasting and strategic services corporation. Hear what’s around the corner and future trends. Download the full Conference Program, and register online.Monday-Tuesday 30-31 May
Melbourne
Shaping Victoria 2011: Planning for a Changing Climate
Tuesday to Wednesday 7-8 June 2011
Warrnambool
The Department for Planning & Community Development (DPCD), presents the third annual planners forum for planning and community development professionals. The forum will explore ways of preparing for and responding to future planning challenges in rural and regional Victoria. Featuring keynote speakers, field trips and discussion workshops, it should not be missed by planners, community engagement professionals and other practitioners from the private and public sector. This forum will provide an ideal networking opportunity for participants from regional Victoria to share skills and ideas. Issues to be discussed include:
* climate change adaptation
* using data and technology to inform strategic planning
* improving planning for rural and non-urban areas
* new energy generation opportunities
* risk management and planning responses
For a full copy of the program and to register, go here. For more information contact Sally Hutchison via email or telephone (03) 5988 5280.
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