Local communities deserve a commitment to fix derelict facilities in their area – not the cynical lip-service that is being provided by Minister Lloyd.
It is clear that the Howard Government is sitting on their hands, watching local councils struggle to maintain facilities, and waiting for the opportunity to pour funds into the communities where this arrogant Government needs the votes.
The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) report commissioned by Price Waterhouse Coopers was clear, it suggested that:
“Many local councils across the country now have sizable financial sustainability challenges, which require major reforms … without reforms, up to 30% of local government councils might not be sustainable.”
ALGA is clear in its message that without a financial lifeline, communities faced the closure of key facilities.
This Government should not be playing politics with community facilities. Australians are tired of pork barrelling from this Government; they want local solutions not political solutions. The quality of swimming pool, community hall or library should not be based on whether it happens to be located in a marginal seat.
Labor is committed to the constitutional recognition local Government, and have committed to work with local government to introduce a new cooperation and a better deal for local communities
Labor calls on the Howard Government to apply fair allocation of funds to ensure that all Australians have access to decent facilities, infrastructure and services.
Contact: Taryn Langdon 0417 148 059 or 6277 3334
