Trenorden to visit SA and QLD on local government fact finding tour

Author: Max Trenorden
Published on: 21-August-2009

Hon Max Trenorden, Member for the Agricultural Region, will be heading east to South Australia and Queensland to investigate collaborative models of regional governance.

“The Nationals are keenly aware that regional Local Government Councillors are engaged in the reform process as requested by the Minister for Local Government, and that this process has caused a great deal of angst,” Mr Trenorden said. “It is my view that this angst can be alleviated by access to credible and tested models of collaborative local government, as is in place in other States in Australia."

“I am seeking to meet a range of local government representatives in South Australia, where a subsidiary model of regional government has been introduced, and in Queensland, where amalgamations were forced by the State Government."

“My aim is to return with credible and practical solutions for regional local governments who are looking for models that allow their Shire to engage with their neighbours to leverage funding from the Commonwealth and State Government and the private sector while retaining their local identity and sense of community.” Mr Trenorden will be joined by Hon Nigel Hallett MLC and BHW Consulting Directors Mr Bruce Wittber and Ms Helen Westcott.

“I’d encourage all regional representatives to engage in the process and be frank and honest in their assessment of options available to their Shires going forward,” Mr Trenorden said. “I have confidence that the Minister for Local Government will seriously consider the options I am investigating to be an acceptable reform option and will ensure all regional local governments have access to the models for consideration.”