Mayoral Memo - 15 November 2023
As I pen these lines from a hotel room amidst the annual Local Government NSW (LGNSW) conference, it is a great opportunity to reflect on this conference. LGNSW serves as the apex organisation for Councils in New South Wales, encompassing all 128 Councils in the state. While I can’t be certain exactly how many of those Councils are in attendance, the presence of over 800 delegates strongly indicates wide representation from across the State.
Dubbo is well represented here, with eight of our Councillors participating in addition to an appearance by our duty MLC, the Hon. Stephen Lawrence, a former LGNSW Board Member. I view this event as a vital opportunity for Councillors to enhance their knowledge and exchange ideas with their counterparts from various Councils in the state.
Parliamentary representatives, recognising the unique platform that the LGNSW conference presents, were keen to engage with local leaders. This year, the roster included the Federal Minister for Local Government, two State Ministers, a Parliamentary Secretary, and other members of State Parliament, including the opposition leader. The discussions were particularly enriched by the participation of the Chair of IPART, especially in the context of the topical issues of rate rises and rate-pegging.
An enlightening presentation by Mark McCrindle, a social researcher and demographer, was a conference highlight. His ability to blend entertainment with in-depth demographic analysis reflects the evolution of this field into a more engaging and dynamic one, a shift pioneered by Bernard Salt.
My prior experiences at various conferences had shaped certain expectations, but attending my first local government conference in 2006 in the Blue Mountains was a revelation. It was unique, with a considerable focus on motions submitted by Councils from around the State. These sessions, resembling large Council meetings, play a crucial role in shaping the policy directions of LGNSW.
This year’s conference followed suit, with 131 motions tabled for debate. The discussions highlighted the contrasts between the inner Sydney Councils and regional Councils. These debates, often centred on hyper-local issues, exemplify the core of local government – addressing the specific needs of individual communities. While some may perceive these discussions as overly detailed, I regard them as invaluable learning opportunities. They offer a glimpse into the diverse challenges and solutions across the state, reinforcing the importance of attendance at this conference.
The conference facilitates more than formal debates; it serves as a breeding ground for informal, yet crucial, conversations with Councillors and senior staff from different regions. This interaction is not just an exchange of ideas but a chance to learn about innovative practices and solutions being implemented elsewhere.
The LGNSW conference is a testament to the dynamic and diverse nature of local government in NSW. It’s a forum where learning, debate, and networking converge, offering participants a broad perspective on the issues and opportunities within local government.
Councillor Mathew Dickerson
Mayor of Dubbo Regional Council
Last Edited: 16 Nov 2023