Community and stakeholder engagement sessions are now underway across Victoria as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s review of the Local Government Act.

Member for Werribee, Tim Pallas said community workshops and listening posts would provide the Wyndham community the opportunity to get involved and have their say about how Local Government should look and function in the future.

Ratepayers should keep an eye out for staff at listening posts, which will be set up in Werribee on Wednsday July 27 Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre.

The sessions build on feedback already received about the review from 10 community forums held earlier this year and around 340 submissions that have been made.

The upcoming sessions will seek feedback on the review’s Directions Paper launched last month, which included proposed changes to the length of mayoral terms, the number of councillors for each council, voting rules, governance and community engagement.

Victorians are invited to participate in a number of ways:

• Submissions
• An online poll
• A wide range of stakeholder sessions including for councils, peak bodies, business, ratepayers
• Focus groups with ratepayers and residents
• Listening posts
• Through their local council

The review – which responds to calls from the local government sector and the community for reform – is also examining the role and functions of councillors and CEOs, modernising council business operations, embedding sound financial management and strengthening how complaints are handled.

To participate, visit the Local Government Act Review website: www.yourcouncilyourcommunity.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government Natalie Hutchins

“The Victorian Government is keen to hear from Victorians about how we can reform local government to help make councils serve their communities more effectively and efficiently.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee, Tim Pallas

“The review of Local Government Act will be benefit from the voice of the community. I want to encourage everyone to keep an eye out for the roving listening posts in Werribee and get involved.

 “This is an important reform that will improve the way the Act functions for Victorians. It’s about bringing the Act into the 21s century so that it reflects community expectations.”