ALGA

The ALGA has its own website - click here - http//:www.alga.asn.au

The Australian Local Government Association (then known as the Council of Australian Local Government Associations) was founded in 1947. It is a federation of associations in each of Australia's six states, the Northern Territory and the Government of the Australian Capital Territory.

In 1976 the Association established a secretariat in the national capital. This move reflected growing links with the Commonwealth government and an awareness of local government's emerging national role.

The Association's policies are determined at its Annual General Meeting and by a National General Assembly of Local Government in Canberra. All councils can participate and vote on national issues. The General Assembly has a wide brief to consider policy directions and convey the views of councils to the Annual General Meeting and National Executive.

The first General Assembly in 1994 produced the National Agenda for Local Government, a comprehensive statement of principles and policies on national issues affecting local communities. This was updated in 1995 and 1996 and underpins the Association's activities.

The Association's task is to add value at the national level to the work of state and territory associations and their member councils. Corporate goals are:

• to enhance the national reputation of local government and its role in the Australian system of government
• to represent effectively local government's interests in dealings with the Commonwealth government and in national forums
• to promote a local government perspective on national issues
• to develop and maintain effective working relationships with other national organisations related to local government
• to advance the contribution and expertise of councils in key national issues and programs which require strong participation by local government

The Association's programs are adjusted regularly according to need. For the foreseeable future, priority areas will include:

• maintaining and increasing local government's share of national taxation revenues through the system of Commonwealth financial assistance grants and other measures.
• gaining recognition of local government in the Australian Constitution
• guiding and monitoring micro-economic and other national reform processes impacting on local government
• further strengthening of local government's role in Australia's federal system

Australia has more than 500 councils accountable to diverse metropolitan, regional, rural, and indigenous communities.

The LGA of South Australia is an active participant in ALGA affairs.

To view interstate associations which comprise the other members of the ALGA - click here.