Modern legislation for modern local government: Fraser

17 July 2007

Modern legislation for modern local government: Fraser

The Beattie Government’s commitment to modernising local government took another major step forward today with the release of a key set of documents that will underpin the overhaul of the Local Government Act.

Local Government and Planning Minister Andrew Fraser said the release of a series of discussion papers on key aspects of the Local Government Act would ensure Queensland’s new, modern system of local government was supported by modern, contemporary legislation.

Mr Fraser said in addition to the review of the Act, two discussion papers were also released, which provide interested parties with an opportunity to contribute to the formulation of a new set of model local laws.

“Along with boundary reform, we require legislative reform,” Mr Fraser said.

“The Beattie Government is committed to building a robust, modern and financially-viable local government system throughout our State.

“Local government plays a critical role in planning and delivering local services and infrastructure for Queensland communities.

“Boundary changes alone will not modernise Queensland’s local government system.

“This review provides an important opportunity to put in place legislation that recognises the autonomy of local government, reflects a revitalised local government system and was initiated at the request of local government itself.

“Traditionally, local government has been concerned primarily with roads, rates and rubbish. While councils continue to provide these services, they are also becoming more concerned with the provision of infrastructure and human services.

“Councils also play a key regulatory role in areas such as planning, public health and environmental management.

“This review will ensure councils deliver services through a contemporary governance system and operate in a sustainable, accountable and transparent manner.

“This package of reforms will deliver a modern and accountable system of local government for Queensland’s residents and ratepayers – a system founded on improved service delivery and community-driven outcomes.”

Mr Fraser said the eight issues papers addressed key issues surrounding the review that were identified by stakeholders in local government, industry and the community, including:

• Structures and functions of local government;
• Local government and its place in the wider framework of government;
• The roles and powers of councillors and officers;
• Local government elections;
• Local laws;
• Asset, financial and infrastructure management;
• Performance reporting and compliance; and
• The role of the department responsible for local government.

Mr Fraser said anyone interested was also encouraged to contribute to the formulation of a new set of model local laws.

“Model local laws provide local government with best practice instruments for the adoption of local laws, including the management of parks and reserves, control of pests, roads and animal control,” Mr Fraser said.

“They assist councils to maintain public order, health, safety and environmental protection of Queensland communities.

“Local Government’s are able to adopt model local laws without public consultation due to rigorous consultation and screening undertaken by the State.

“The review is being undertaken in conjunction with the Local Government Act 1993 review, providing synergy between the local law making processes.”

The consultation period will run until 5 October 2007.

The Local Government Act 1993 issues papers and the model local laws discussion papers will be available in hard copy and on the DLGPSR website: www.lgp.qld.gov.au, and submissions can be made online, by email or in hard copy.

Media contact: Chris Taylor 3227 8825

Chris Ward 3227 8821